ABSTRACT
Communication is something we all engage in either consciously or subconsciously all the time. In teams this communication is fundamental to the effective operation of the team. Good communication is generally accepted as being crucial in all aspects of sports performance and preparation. The communication strategies adopted within any team underpin the effectiveness of that team to deliver its desired performance. Good-quality communication, and a structure that encourages both bottom-up and top-down communication, are both crucial to the development of optimal team processes. Yukelson (2006) highlighted the importance of effective communication for optimizing cohesion, team dynamics, and inter-group relationships within the team. Carron and Hausenblas (1998) went one step further to highlight the importance of intra-team communication for the development and maintenance of group structure, decision making, goal setting, cooperation, team building, and leadership, and to reduce within-group conflict. Effective communication has also been highlighted as being essential for the overall coordination and management of any team. The use of effective communication can have a positive impact on the development of good interpersonal relationships and trust, and creates a positive environment, which then facilitates the team’s working towards achieving its goals (Athanasios, 2005). While communication is crucial in teams it is, at least in part, a skill. As such, it can be learnt and practised (Mullin, 2009). We communicate all the time, but are not necessarily aware of the messages we send. Understanding the nature of communication in teams can help the architects of that team to develop strategies to enhance team effectiveness through communication. The absence of good communication can result in a lack of cooperation and coordination, and confusion amongst team members. This chapter will explain the required mechanisms and approaches for enhancing communication channels, specifically exploring the different types of communication, communication networks, language use, and common communication errors, and strategies that can be used to enhance communication within the team.
