Perceptual Communication Barrier

Perception is generally how each individual interprets the world around him. All generally
want to receive messages which are significant to them. But any message which is
against their values is not accepted. A same event may be taken differently by different
individuals. For example: A person is on leave for a month due to personal reasons
(family member being critical). The HR Manager might be in confusion whether to retain
that employee or not, the immediate manager might think of replacement because his
teams productivity is being hampered, the family members might take him as an
emotional support.

Differences in perception

The world constantly provides us with information: sights, sounds, scents, and so on.
Our minds organize this stream of sensation into a mental map that represents our
perception or reality. In no case is the perception of a certain person the same as the
world itself, and no two maps are identical. As you view the world, your mind absorbs
your experiences in a unique and personal way. Because your perceptions are unique,
the ideas you want to express differ from other people's Even when two people have
experienced the same event, their mental images of that event will not be identical. As
senders, we choose the details that seem important and focus our attention on the most
relevant and general, a process known as selective perception. As receivers, we try to fit
new details into our existing pattern. If a detail doesn't quite fit, we are inclined to distort
the information rather than rearrange the pattern.

Perceptual Filters

We all see the world differently. We all have our own preferences, values, attitudes,
origins and life experiences that act as "filters" on our experiences of people, events and
information. Seeing things through the lens of our own unique life experiences or
"conditioning" may lead to assumptions, stereotyping and misunderstandings of others
whose experiences differ from our own.

Relationships

Our differences can make it more challenging to understand one another and to find
common ground for shared experience, which can help build a sense of family,
friendship or community. Effective communication in relationships--whether in the
workplace or in our personal lives--is the key to cultivating the qualities of trust, respect
and mutual understanding, which are fundamental to strong relationships. Even if our
feelings, attitudes and world views diverge, when communication is successful our
differences don't pull us apart but bring us together and can enrich our relationships and
interactions.

Non-Verbal Factors

We use more than words when we communicate. What we say is also affected by how
we say it (tone, volume) and by nonverbal factors such as body language and facial
gestures. For example, you may perceive a situation differently if the person you are
speaking with is smiling or frowning, has body odor and is standing too close or is not
giving you direct eye contact. In turn, this individual is simultaneously assessing your
verbal and nonverbal cues. A negative "read" can often trigger unproductive or
dysfunctional emotional responses, such as anger or oversensitivity, thus affecting the
flow and outcome of communication.

Roadblocks to Success

People who can't get past perceptual barriers to communication are likely to experience
roadblocks in both their professional and personal lives. Misunderstandings result when
parties are not willing to see past differences or take the time to understand each other's
perspectives. Ignorance, judgments, stereotypes and misunderstanding cannot be the
basis for business or intimacy.

Overcoming perceptual communication barrier

If we choose to communicate consciously, then our differences don't have to become

roadblocks. In fact, they can enrich our interactions tremendously. Start by listening to
others, clarify if there is confusion, stay calm and be positive. An attitude of good will and
tolerance toward others goes a long way--even if you miscommunicate or do not like
another's words or actions, you are more likely to default to a response that is
nonharming, making it easier to appreciate and learn from one another.

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