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FIGURE 8.1 Network communication model

The nodes are the participants, and the lines show the connection between them all.
The formula for calculating the lines of communication looks like this:

(Number of participants × (Number of participants –1)) ÷ 2

Here’s the calculation in mathematical terms:

n(n – 1) ÷ 2

Figure 8.1 shows five participants, so let’s plug that into the formula to determine the

lines of communication:
5(5 – 1) ÷ 2 = 10

Effective vs. Efficient Communication

Keep in mind there is a difference between effective and efficient communication.
Effective communication concerns providing the right information in the right
format for the intended audience at the right time. Efficient communication refers
to providing the appropriate level and amount of information at the right time,
that is, only the information that’s needed at the time.

Listening

In the sender-message-receiver model, there’s one critical communication skill that we
all need to possess as a receiver, and that is the art of listening. Listening isn’t the part
where you plan out what you’re going to say because someone else is speaking. It’s the
part where you actively engage with the sender and ask clarifying questions to make
sure you’re understanding the message correctly.

You can use several techniques to improve your listening skills. Many books are

devoted to this topic, so I’ll try to highlight some of the most common techniques here:
Appearing interested in what the speaker is saying. This will make the speaker feel

at ease and will benefit you as well. By acting interested, you become interested and

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