According to Robbins and Judge (2020), the communication process includes the following factors:

• A message designed by the sender
• A process in which the message is sent to a receiver
• A process in which the receiver gets and decodes the message, giving it context and meaning

Robbins and Judge (2020) state that the sender begins a message by encoding a thought and sending it through a channel. A channel is the way through which the message travels. The receiver gets and interprets the message but must contend with noise or distractions that can interfere with accurately interpreting the message’s meaning. Examples of noise include physical noise, distraction from other tasks, the mind being occupied with other things, and even previous life experience and upbringing. Could women and men attempt to communicate the same message but have it be delivered so that the receiver misperceives it? Would this communication be impacted if the receiver was a woman or a man? Studies validate differences in how women and men communicate and how they receive and interpret similar messages. See the resources in this module for more information on these studies.

In general terms, men use communication to:

• Maintain competition
• Convey rationality
• Convey aggressiveness
• Convey independence

Conversely, women use communication to:

• Build relationships
• Promote cooperation
• Build community
• Nurture
• Include others
• Serve others

Characteristics of the typical woman’s communication style include fluidity, openness, sensuality, and emotion. Women’s communication styles originate in how women were raised and socialized. In essence, the typical woman’s communication style is the antithesis of the typical man’s style. This difference in communication style has its origins in the overarching way that women and men view the world. In the typical man’s view, the world is a hierarchical, power-driven, competitive place where action and doing are valued. However, in the typical woman’s view, the world is a series of circles, networks, and communities in which reflection and connection are valued. Considering the vast differences between these views, an observer may wonder how women and men can communicate effectively in the workplace.

References

Robbins, S. P., & Judge, T. A. (2020). Essentials of organizational behavior (15th ed.). Pearson/Prentice Hall. 

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 What do you think are the main differences in communication styles between women and men in leadership? How have these differences affected your organization’s ability to meet strategic initiatives to deliver on its mission? Support your discussion using the readings, library, and scholarly sources.

Submission, APA, 3 paragraphs