Form and Function of Communication

Through the last 13 weeks, communication issues have been discussed in abundance, ranging from the 7Cs to research writing, and rounded up with interview and presentation skills. While each of these topics could have entire blog entries written about that topic, I would instead like to share about a key takeaway of mine from the ES2007S class – the balancing of form and function.

Throughout the course, this has manifested in various forms. Firstly, in terms of interview skills, while one might have a vast arsenal of knowledge and experiences (function), the inability to sell these skill sets effectively (form) would cause the interviewee to not be able to achieve the ultimate goal of landing the job.

Next, in terms of interpersonal communication, it is a balance between what is said (both verbal and nonverbal) and the intentions or thoughts behind it. While one might have intended to express certain thoughts or feelings, the differing social and cultural backgrounds between the parties involved might result in miscommunication and misunderstanding taking place. Finding the ideal point of balance, in this case, is an art form in its own right.

Finally, language and effective communication in itself is a balancing act of form and function. Taking report writing as an example, while one might want to express as many ideas as possible within a report, focusing solely on the content might cause him/her to forget about the importance of the form – the grammar, the formatting of the paper, and the overall impression that the report gives to the reader.

Just like a consumer product being sold, I find that every form of communication that we engage in needs to be presented as a whole product with a balance between the form and the function involved. Only then can we say that we communicate professionally and effectively, and become effective in whatever we set our sights on.