Workplace Communication in Sri Lanka

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 Workplace Communication in Sri Lanka

Communication is a process which transfers and understands of meaning. It is only the way which conveys information and ideas. In perfect communication, the thought transmitted by the sender which would understand by the receiver as the same mental picture (Robbins et. al, 2022).

Communication Process Model

Source: Robbins et. al, 2009

Key parts of the communication model are:

1.     Sender

2.     Encoding

3.     Message

4.     Channel

5.     Decoding

6.     Receiver

7.     Noise

8.     Feedback

Communication consists with five major functions within an organization: information exchange, persuasion, emotional sharing, feedback and management.


Direction of Communication

Communication in an organization can occur vertically and laterally through formal networks and grapevine. Vertical communication can occur into upward (used to provide feedback to higher-ups, inform them progress towards goals, inform current problems) and downward (for an example, group leaders and managers use it to assign goals, provide job instructions, explain policies and procedures, point out problems that need attention and offer feedback) directions.

Modes of Communication

1.     Oral communication: meetings, conference, telephone

2.     Written communication: letters, emails, memorandums, messaging, apps, websites, blogs

3.     Nonverbal communication: body movements, gestures, facial expressions

    Barriers to Effective Communication

·       Filtering

·       Selective perception

·       Information overload

·       Emotions

·       Language

·       Silence

·       Communication apprehension

·       Lying

·       Cultural barriers

When choosing a communication method, channel richness (the amount of information that can be transmitted during communication episode), tangibility, authenticity, verifiability with on record are vital and must be taken into consideration.

References

Robbins, S., Judge, T., Edwards, M., Sandiford, P., Fitzgerald, M. and Hunt, J. (2019). Organisational Behaviour. 9th ed. S.L.: Pearson Education Australia.

Comments

  1. Sujith H. Rajapaksha April 26, 2025 at 7:17 PM

    This is nicely captures the fundamentals of communication and relates well to the Sri Lankan workplace setting. I particularly liked how you pointed out barriers like filtering and cultural differences, which are very real in our environment where hierarchy often influences communication flow. It would be interesting to explore how modern tools like WhatsApp groups and Zoom meetings are reshaping these traditional communication patterns in Sri Lankan companies today.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Shanaka BandaraMay 2, 2025 at 11:19 AM

      In Sri Lanka, traditional workplace communication often faces barriers like hierarchical filtering and cultural norms. However, tools like WhatsApp and Zoom are increasingly bridging these gaps. WhatsApp enables real-time, informal communication across all levels, fostering inclusivity and quicker decision-making . Zoom facilitates virtual meetings, supporting remote work and enhancing collaboration. These platforms are reshaping communication dynamics, promoting transparency, and adapting to modern work environments.

      Delete
  2. Kaushalya GayaniApril 26, 2025 at 8:41 PM

    This overview of workplace communication in Sri Lanka provides a clear breakdown of key concepts like the communication process model, directions of communication, and common barriers. It’s especially useful how it ties theoretical ideas with practical workplace examples, like upward and downward communication.

    How do cultural aspects unique to Sri Lanka influence nonverbal communication in the workplace?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Shanaka BandaraMay 2, 2025 at 11:21 AM

      Cultural aspects in Sri Lanka, such as respect for hierarchy, collectivism, and indirect communication styles, greatly influence nonverbal cues like body language, facial expressions, and eye contact—often reflecting deference and politeness in workplace interactions.

      Delete
  3. Nilusha BogahapitiyaApril 27, 2025 at 5:46 AM

    You have highlighted the communication process and the Key parts of it. It is very useful to know about vertical and lateral communication directions. However, if you could also explain how communication works within SL culture, it would support adding more value to this post. Sri Lankan communication culture is often respectful of superiors. Hierarchical structures can affect to employees interact. Most of the time, employees hesitate to give feedback to higher management.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Shanaka BandaraMay 2, 2025 at 11:22 AM

      Thank you for your feedback! You're right—Sri Lanka’s hierarchical culture often limits open communication, with employees showing high respect for superiors and hesitating to offer upward feedback. Addressing this can enhance clarity and trust in the workplace.

      Delete
  4. Dulanjali YapaMay 1, 2025 at 11:37 AM

    This blog provides valuable insights into workplace communication in Sri Lanka, emphasizing its importance in fostering a positive work environment. It would be great to see more discussion on the role of digital communication tools in enhancing workplace communication, especially in the context of remote or hybrid work. I’m curious—what strategies do you think would be most effective for improving communication between diverse teams in Sri Lankan organizations, particularly with the rise of digital communication platforms?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Shanaka BandaraMay 2, 2025 at 11:23 AM

      To improve communication between diverse teams in Sri Lankan organizations, especially with digital platforms, strategies like using clear, inclusive language, setting communication norms, offering digital literacy training, and encouraging regular virtual check-ins can foster better understanding and collaboration.

      Delete
    2. Dinuka SenanayakeMay 3, 2025 at 1:09 AM

      This blog post offers a useful overview of fundamental communication concepts, such as the communication process model and the different directions and modes of communication. It’s especially helpful for readers new to the topic, and the inclusion of barriers to communication adds value. However, the post would benefit from clearer language, better grammar, and more specific examples related to Sri Lankan workplace culture. Adding real-life scenarios or case studies could enhance its practical relevance and make it more engaging for a local audience.

      Delete
    3. Shanaka BandaraMay 4, 2025 at 12:01 AM

      Thank you! The post covers key communication concepts well, but clearer language, local examples, and real-life scenarios would make it more effective and engaging for a Sri Lankan audience.

      Delete
  5. Abhiru WeerageMay 3, 2025 at 10:50 PM

    The main challenges that can prevent productive communication in the workplace are simply outlined below. Understanding problems like selective perception, language barriers, and communication anxiety is especially crucial in the Sri Lankan setting, where cultural quirks and hierarchical systems frequently play a big factor. I particularly like that the importance of selecting the appropriate communication channel is emphasised; taking into account elements like verifiability, authenticity, and richness may significantly improve clarity and minimise misconceptions. Overcoming these obstacles can be greatly aided by raising awareness and encouraging inclusive, open communication methods. Nice thoughts!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Shanaka BandaraMay 4, 2025 at 12:02 AM

      Thank you! Highlighting challenges like perception biases and communication anxiety, especially within Sri Lanka’s cultural and hierarchical context, is crucial—promoting open, inclusive communication is key to overcoming them.

      Delete
  6. Lahiru HimeshMay 3, 2025 at 11:31 PM

    Effective communication is most important to any organization, ensuring that everyone understands their roles and works together productively. You've pointed out the importance of both vertical and lateral communication, each serving a unique purpose in reaching organizational goals. It's interesting to see how upward and downward communication contribute to the overall flow of information. However, we should also think about how organizations can overcome challenges like selective perception and information overload. What practical strategies do you think could help organizations reduce these barriers and enhance communication?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Shanaka BandaraMay 4, 2025 at 12:03 AM

      Great point! To reduce barriers like selective perception and information overload, organizations can use clear, concise messaging, encourage feedback, tailor communication to the audience, and promote a culture of openness and active listening.

      Delete
  7. Rumesh DissanayakaMay 4, 2025 at 8:24 AM

    This blog post highlights the crucial role of workplace communication in Sri Lankan organizations very effectively. I liked how it touched on both verbal and non-verbal communication styles and the influence of culture on professional interactions. Clear communication is key to a healthy work environment, and this article captures that well. Great job presenting it in a relatable and practical way!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Shanaka BandaraMay 4, 2025 at 8:52 AM

      Thank you! I'm glad the focus on communication styles and cultural influence resonated with you. Clear communication truly is vital for a positive workplace.

      Delete

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