1.) Communication is the process of exchanging and interpreting information or meaning through a common system of signs, symbols, and behavior. For example, any time that you write, speak, listen, and converse, you are communicating meaning and information. To be successful in your career, you need to be an effective communicator.

Todays workplace activities require that you communicate in a variety of ways while performing many different tasks. Which of the following workplace tasks are communication based? Check all that apply.

A. Using a variety of channel and contexts to relay information

B. Printing reports from an online database of client information

C. Coordinating the work of team members and employees

D. Evaluating and conducting performance reviews

2.) Zantron Inc. completely redesigns its website to reflect the revised mission and vision of the company.

Which type of horizontal communication is represented in this scenario?

A. Internal

B. External

C. Context

3.) Technological changes and team environments are also contextual forces that influence workplace communication. Today, many organizations rely heavily on a team-based approach and technology to improve productivity and innovation. Familiarity with technology and team environments will make you a more effective employee and communicator.

Work teams help companies remain competitive in a global marketplace. Choose the selections from the list that best define effective work teams. Check all that apply.

A. Teams allow underperforming workers to freeload.

B. Teams increase efficiency by eliminating layers of management.

C. Teams make employees feel that they are shaping their own jobs.

4.) Lorenzo Gilberto is a recent college graduate from Chile. He has landed a job as a project manager for a small, specialty handbag company in Los Angeles. On his first day of work, he must attend meetings. The first meeting is scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. During the meeting, Lorenzo takes out his smartphone to take notes. Thinking that Lorenzo is responding to emails, one of the senior managers glances at Lorenzo disapprovingly. At the end of the meeting, subteams are assigned tasks. The owner of the company notifies everyone that she will be sending out paper memos with schedules and work plans attached. As a final note, she asks Lorenzos project team to meet in person to make final edits to a proposal.

What barrier to communication may cause miscommunication between Lorenzo and the senior manager?

A. Intergenerational issues

B. Poor team communication

C. Personal distraction