There are many ways in which your communication can be misunderstood or in which you can misunderstand your customers. Here are some of the ways.

• The messages are too complex.
• You and/or the customer do not understand the technical language.
• The message is confused because of poor pronunciation and incorrect use of words.
• You or the customer are influenced by prejudice due to cultural differences, position or educational differences.
• The message is hindered by stereotyping or by physical, personal and age differences.
• There is too much background noise.
• Either you or the customer are not listening actively.
• You lack support from within your business.
• The customer is in an emotional state.
• Language difficulties have not been attended to carefully.
• You have not paid full attention to the customer throughout the discussion with them.

Think about times you have had a barrier to effective communication. Share this experience with other learners and try to come up with solutions or better ways to approach the situation. Other learners may have some great solutions to problems you have encountered. You may also be able to pass on your expertise in helping customers to others.