What is the Difference Between Communication and Business Communication?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

Communication and business communication are both forms of information exchange, but they differ in several aspects, including purpose, tone, style, audience, and context. Here are the key differences between the two:

  1. Purpose: General communication can serve various purposes, such as maintaining social relationships, sharing personal experiences, or informing about certain problems. In contrast, business communication is typically focused on achieving business goals and addresses specific actions towards the business.
  2. Tone and Style: Business communication is often more formal and professional in tone and style, requiring a level of professionalism and respect. General communication, on the other hand, can be more casual and informal, depending on the context and purpose.
  3. Audience: Business communication takes place between people who are talking about a subject that is common, such as employees, managers, stakeholders, and customers. In contrast, general communication involves the exchange and sharing of information between individuals, families, friends, and other organizations outside of a specific organization.
  4. Context: Business communication is the type of communication that occurs within a company and is typically more formal and structured. General communication can take place in various settings, such as social or personal contexts, and can be more relaxed and informal.
  5. Format: Business communication often follows organizational and company policies, while general communication does not have the same level of formality and can use various methods.

In summary, while both communication and business communication involve the exchange of information, ideas, news, and views, they differ in purpose, tone, style, audience, and context. Business communication is more formal, focused on achieving business goals, and occurs within a company, while general communication is more informal, casual, and can occur in various settings outside of a specific organization.

Comparative Table: Communication vs Business Communication

Here is a table highlighting the differences between communication and business communication:

Feature Communication Business Communication
Definition The process of sharing information, ideas, and emotions between two or more people. The process of sharing information, ideas, and emotions within a professional setting, focusing on achieving organizational goals.
Purpose To convey thoughts, feelings, and ideas. To facilitate decision-making, inform, persuade, and build relationships within a business context.
Focus Personal, emotional, and sometimes informal. Professional, goal-oriented, and usually more formal.
Structure Can be more flexible and adaptable to different situations. Follows specific guidelines, protocols, and formats to ensure clarity and efficiency.
Clarity The message may be less precise, leading to potential misunderstandings. The message is clear, concise, and well-organized to minimize the chances of misunderstandings.
Medium Can involve various methods, such as spoken words, gestures, and expressions. Often relies on written documents, presentations, and reports, which may include numerical data.

In summary, while communication is a general term that encompasses all forms of sharing information, business communication is a specific type of communication that takes place within a professional setting, focusing on achieving organizational objectives. It is characterized by a more formal structure, clearer language, and a focus on goal-oriented outcomes.