What is Communication and Functions of Communication

functions of communicationCommunicate means to share. Communication is the process of exchanging of messages, ideas, facts, opinions or feelings. It is the mechanism of transferring meaningful information from one person to another. Poor communication is probably the most frequently cited source of interpersonal conflict. The individuals spend nearly 70 percent of their waking hours communicating—writing, reading, speaking, listening. It plays a vital role in any type of organisation. Perfect communication would occur when a thought or idea was transmitted so the receiver perceived exactly the same mental picture as the sender. Perfect communication can never be achieved due to various reasons which we will discuss later. In this article let’s understand the functions of communication.


Functions of Communication

Communication serves four major functions within a group or organization. These are :

  1. Control
  2. Motivation
  3. Emotional expression
  4. Information

Let’s discuss these functions one by one


When employees communicate any job-related grievance to their immediate boss, follow their job description, or comply with company policies, communication is performing a control function.


Communication fosters motivation by clarifying to employees what they must do, how well they are doing it, and how they can improve if performance is subpar. The formation of specific goals, feedback on progress toward the goals, and reward for desired behavior all stimulate motivation and require communication.

Emotional Expression

Communication is a fundamental mechanism by which members of group shows their satisfaction and frustrations. Communication, therefore, provides for the emotional expression of feelings and fulfillment of social needs.


Communication provides the information individuals and groups need to make decisions by transmitting the data needed to identify and evaluate choices. Thus communication helps to facilitate decision making.


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