7 Cs of Communication
7 Cs of Communication
This article explains practically the 7 C’s of Effective Communication. After reading you will
understand the basics of this powerful communication skills tool.
Completeness
The message must be complete and geared to the receiver’s perception of the world. The
message must be based on facts and a complex message needs additional information and/ or
explanation. A good subdivision of subjects will clarify the message as a result of which there
will be a complete overview of what is said.
Concreteness
Concrete business communication is also about a clear message. This is often supported by
factual material such as research data and figures. The words used as well as the sentence
structure can be interpreted uni-vocally. Nothing is left to the imagination.
Courtesy
In addition to considering the feelings and points of view of the target group, it is also important
to approach the audience in a friendly and courteous manner. Use of terms that show respect for
the receiver contribute towards effective communication. The same goes for the manner in which
you address someone. Not everyone will be charmed if you use a familiar form of address and
use of a formal address could come across as too distant. By using the word ‘they’ a larger
audience is immediately addressed.
Correctness
A correct use of language has the preference. In written business communication, grammatical
errors must be avoided and stylistic lapses or a wrong use of verbs are not sufficient either in
verbal communication. A correct use of language increases trustworthiness and the receiver will
feel that they are taken seriously.
Clarity
Clear or plain language is characterized by explicitness, short sentences and concrete words.
Fuzzy language is absolutely forbidden, as are formal language and cliché expressions. By
avoiding parentheses and keeping to the point, the receiver will get a clear picture of the content
of the message. Briefly-worded information emphasizes the essence of the message.
Consideration
Conciseness
A message is clear when the storyline is consistent and when this does not contain any
inconsistencies. When facts are mentioned, it is important that there is consistent, supporting
information. Systematically implementing a certain statement or notation also contributes to
clear business communication. When statements are varied, they will confuse the receiver.
The 7 C’s of Effective Communication have two more variations that are often overlooked,
namely Creativity and Credibility.
● Creativity
A text will only be lively when the words and sentence structures are used creatively and when
short sentences are alternated with longer sentences. Creativity is especially important in texts in
which search words are used, it is essential that the search words are constantly used in a
different setting.
● Credibility
By creating an atmosphere of trust in a conversation or text, you add credibility to the message.
This can be achieved by a clear and striking ‘tone’, which indicates that the information you are
discussing contains the right information.
All kinds of factors play a role when people communicate. Do we know each other? What do we
think of each other? What do I want from you and vice versa? You can learn how to
communicate clearly and understandably.
What do you think? Are the 7 C’s of Effective Communication applicable for you in today’s
modern economy? What are your success factors for using the 7 C’s of Effective
Communication?
More information
1. Aggarwal, Vir Bala and V. S. Gupta (2001). Handbook of Journalism and Mass Communication.
Concept Publishing Company
3. Scott M. Cutlip, Allen H. Center (1952). Effective public relations: pathways to public favor.
Prentice-Hall.