- Interchange of information
The basic characteristic of human communication is that it aims at exchanging information. It is a two-way process. The exchange can be between two or more persons. It may be at the individual or the organizational level.
- Continuous process
Communication is a continuous process. It is not static. It is constantly subject to change and is dynamic. The people with whom communication is held, its content and nature, and the situation in which communication is held – all keep changing.
- Mutual understanding
The main purpose of communication is to bring about mutual understanding. The receiver should receive and understand the message in the manner that the sender intended him to.
- Response or reaction:
Communication always leads to some response or reaction. A message becomes communication only when the receiving party understands and acknowledges it, and also reacts and responds to it.
- Universal function
Communication is a universal function, which covers all levels of authority.
- Social activity
Communication is a social activity, too. The components of a society are into a relationship of sharing, be it information, feelings or emotions.
The same holds true for business communication. It involves the effort of people to get in touch with one another and to make them understood. The process by which people attempt to share meaning and relate to one another is, thus, a social activity.