Messages

Messages (What)

A message refers to the information that is conveyed from a sender to a receiver through channels using verbal, non-verbal, written, and digital means.

Analysis (Main Ideas)

Information

The set of {facts, opinions, concepts, data, methods, theories, definitions, symbols and so on} about a particular subject.

Sender

The actor (person or group) who sends a message. A sender’s role is to effectively communicate their message.

Receiver

The actor who receives the message. A receiver’s role is to respond to a message in the way that is best for them.

Channel:

A channel is a way of communicating a message. Examples include email, face-to-face conversation, book, video, web article, and speech. A channel is also called a medium or media (plural).

Verbal:

Expressed using words in a language.

Non-Verbal:

Expressed in ways that are not words. Examples include tone of voice, body language, symbols, colors, and so on.

Purposes of Messages

Here are some of the reasons why actors communicate.

Sender Perspective

Senders have many possible purposes for sending messages. Here are some of them.

  1. To inform.
  2. To request something they want or need.
  3. To describe feelings or emotions.
  4. To persuade.
  5. To entertain.
  6. To share.
  7. To justify or prove something.
  8. (many others items …)

Receiver Perspective

Receivers decode and act on messages for many reasons. Here are some of them.

  1. To learn.
  2. To get information.
  3. To build relationships, rapport, trust, and so on.
  4. To find answers to questions.
  5. To solve problems.
  6. To collaborate.
  7. To understand the perspective of others
  8. (many others items …)

Excellence in Communication (How)

To excel in communication, do two things.

  1. Learn the basics – such as clarity, active listening, empathy, nonverbal cues, and feedback loops.

  2. Apply them systematically – by practicing regularly, reflecting on what works, and adjusting your approach based on context and results.

Mastery comes from both understanding and consistent, thoughtful application.