Communication Theory

HCS/320

Communication Theory

Communication is the exchange of ideas and/or information. There are many ways that people can communicate with one another. Different types of communication can include body language, verbal communication, and written communication. An individual working in a law office needs to demonstrate the ability to communicate with co-workers and clients effectively in many different ways. An important aspect of communication is the ability to interact with a variety of people. According to du Pré, (2005), attempting a conversation with someone who does not understand you is not productive. Legal fees are expensive and usually billed by the hour, which makes effective communication between the law office and the client all the more important. A client is not going to hire a law office that does not communicate efficiently. Most client communications are written. Written communication provides a paper trail for the law office to keep track of what was said and when it was said. This type of communication is helpful for example; an attorney would need to reference information relayed to the client. Office managers generally will also write most communications between management and staff, again providing documentation of the information delivered. Co-workers utilize face-to-face communication, telephones, and electronic mail for internal communications amongst themselves. While communicating with co-workers and clients alike it is important for an employee to always be respectful in his or her tone and attitude. Gender and cultural differences should never have a negative impact in the workplace. According to Gentles, Lokker, and McKibbon, (2010), Electronic records have a variety of uses for managing information. This is also an excellent way for any company or law office