Clampitt’s Communication Models: Arrow, Circuit, and Dance
Clampitt’s Models of Communication
The Arrow Approach
The arrow metaphor represents the direction of communication from A to B. Within each form of communication, a number of assumptions are made.
Communication Effectiveness (Arrow)
- Clearly and precisely articulating thoughts into words.
- Speaking with credibility and authority.
- Achieving desired results through communication.
Underlying Assumptions (Arrow)
- Clarity and precision are universally understood.
- Credibility is inherent to the speaker.
- Communication is primarily one-way.
The Circuit Approach
This is a two-way communication process.
Communication Effectiveness (Circuit)
- Listening to employees to foster satisfaction.
- Being sensitive to employees and adapting messages accordingly.
- Being open and understanding.
Underlying Assumptions (Circuit)
- Job satisfaction is the primary goal of organizational communication.
- Messages are interpreted within the context of interpersonal relationships.
- Openness is always beneficial; understanding is preferable to ambiguity.
The Dance Approach
Clampitt uses the dance metaphor to illustrate the complexity and diversity of communication, suggesting that simple explanations can be misleading. Communicators may have multiple goals for a single message. Communication, like dance, tends to be rule-governed.
Rules of the Dance
- Initiate conversations with questions about low-risk topics.
- If a person’s comments are unclear, ask for clarification.
- If a person appears defensive, nod.
- Terminate conversations by summarizing the discussion.
International Aspects of Communication
Communications are extremely important in international business. Advances in telecommunications, IT (Internet, intranet, email), and international travel have significantly improved organizational communication with subsidiaries and overseas partners. However, increased speed of communication has not solved all problems. Language and cultural differences remain considerable barriers.
Cultural Dimensions
Power Distance Index (PDI)
The extent to which less powerful members of institutions and organizations expect and accept unequal power distribution. Democratic societies have a narrower distance between government and governed than authoritarian states.
Uncertainty Avoidance (UAI)
Involves creating rules and structures to eliminate ambiguity in organizations and supporting beliefs that promise certainty and protect conformity.
Masculinity vs. Femininity
Masculinity pertains to societies with clearly distinct social gender roles. Femininity pertains to societies where women are expected to be more modest, tender, and concerned with quality of life. Sweden is a less masculine country; Japan is the most masculine.