Two-way communication is an interpersonal communication that
involves two parties, namely the sender and the recipient. The transfer of
information between the parties, as a rule, takes place back and forth.
A two-way communication process involves the sending of a
message or information by the sender that may be of value to the recipient. The
recipient, having received the message, decrypts it and responds with comments.
In other words, it is a complete communication process in which there is a
continuous flow of information between the sender and the receiver.
Two-way communication can be done through a voice or text
channel. Instant messaging, phone conversations, radio amateurs, videos, chats,
etc. they are examples of interpersonal communication.
What is two-way communication?
Definition: Two-way communication is defined as a type of
communication in which both parties to a conversation transmit a message or
exchange information.
Two-way communication requires the participation of the
sender and receiver. The sender is responsible for transmitting the message
that needs to be transmitted. The recipient of the message is the recipient and
is responsible for transmitting the feedback.
For example, X is the sender and Y is the recipient. X wants
to convey some important message to Y. So this message was emailed to X. Upon
receiving the email, Y responds and confirms with another email. This is the
cycle of two-way communication.
Two-way communication types
Two-way communication can be both vertical and horizontal.
Communication between a subordinate and a boss in an organizational setting is
vertical two-way communication.
On the other hand, communication between employees of the
same rank is called horizontal two-way communication.
Two-way communication is a common cyclical process in most
companies. Companies need to maintain constant contact with their employees, as
they cannot function without interpersonal communication. Therefore, it becomes
practically necessary to have a continuous flow of information between all
interested parties.
Some of the reasons two-way communication is important:
1. Uninterrupted communication
Two-way communication ensures that there are no obstacles to
the flow of messages and comments. The sender can freely transmit the message
through a channel such as telephone, email, video, etc. The receiver can also
reply to this message without any difficulty.
2. Acknowledgments
Two-way communication allows the recipient to confirm that
the message has been received and understood. Once the sender sends a message,
the recipient decrypts it and then confirms or comments through the same
channel. Optimize engagement, support, and understanding among colleagues,
leaders, and group members.
3. Proper execution of the boss's orders.
The role of two-way communication is vital for all
organizations, as it allows employees or subordinates to ask clarifying questions
of the superior. This ensures that any instructions, directions, policies, or
orders given to a superior are properly followed. This way, any
misunderstandings about the task can be quickly cleared up.
4. Employee suggestions
Employee feedback is important if an organization wants to
progress. Sometimes employees can recommend great ideas that can help improve
company policies and plans. Thus, two-way communication encourages them to
present their proposals.
5. Clear message
When an organization follows a two-way communication model,
there is little likelihood of ambiguity. If the recipient faces any confusion
about the message, he can quickly contact the sender to get some clarity.