Page 18 - Towards better compaction v0.5

Towards Better Compaction

Methods of communication

There are four main methods of communication, and they all have uses onboard vessels and in a
port environment.

1. Verbal – talking and listening
2. Written – reading and writing (reports,
documents, SOPs)
3. Body language – using your face, hands, body
position and eyes
(During face-to-face communication, 7% of the
message is received from your words, 38% from
your voice and 55% from your body language)
4. Visual – signs, pictures, symbols, drawing and
charts.

Depending on the situation and barriers to communication, you may need to use a combination of
these methods to ensure effective communication.

Barriers to effective communication

Distractions
Distractions can range from personal issues (e.g. problems with your home life) to other work being
carried out in the workplace.

Misunderstandings/Misinterpretation
You, or your audience, may misunderstand or misinterpret the message leading to confusion and
poor communication. While the two terms are similar, misunderstanding means that your audience
didn’t understand your message while misinterpreting means your audience has understood
something in a way that it wasn’t intended to be. Check to confirm your message was received and
understood correctly.
Noise
Jet slinger operations, moving conveyor belts, and other ship equipment can create high noise levels,
which can make it very difficult to communicate verbally with others. Consider using another form/s
of communication to ensure that your message is understood.

Language
Ship’s crew members may speak several different languages with English as a second or third
language. International shipping does not use a common language, although English is the preferred
language (House of Representatives, “Ships of Shame – Inquiry into Ship Safety”). Many seafarers
are not able to communicate effectively in English so you should confirm understanding if you don’t
think your message is understood.

Biases and moods
The way you feel about people can have an impact on the way you communicate with them. Try to
leave your biases at home before you come to work.

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