The ability to communicate is one of the basic social competences. In addition, in teamwork, it is a prerequisite for effectively achieving the goals set for oneself. Communication in a group means connection, exchange, conversation. It consists in shaping interpersonal relations during everyday communication on many levels. 

According to the definition, the purpose of communication in a group is the exchange of information, thoughts and ideas, and the sharing of knowledge and ideas. This process takes place at different levels, using different types of tools, leading to different types of effects that affect the whole group. 

What are the elements of proper communication in a group? 

Communication in a group consists of such components as active listening, care for the correct flow of information, openness to the needs and opinions of others, providing constructive feedback and the ability to put out fires resulting from various types of crisis situations. 

Communication in a group takes place using various types of conventional signs: words, gestures, sounds, letters, numbers or symbols. We call these character systems codes. The message is conveyed to the receiver through the route chosen by the sender, which we call the channel. We distinguish one-way and two-way, symmetrical and asymmetric, formal and informal, vertical and horizontal, as well as defensive and supportive communication.

One of the advantages of communication in a group is the involvement of all individuals in joint, creative thinking. As a result, unconventional and original ideas and new proposals for solving problems are often created. The group unleashes creative potential. AND effective teamwork brings measurable results.  

Group communication and conflict resolution 

Communication in a group is not only the exchange of information, but also effective coping in crisis situations. There are four conflict resolution strategies: 

1. Rivalry, when the parties to the conflict are focused on fighting in the name of achieving their own goals, setting tough conditions, and often also exerting pressure. The parties to the conflict do not listen to the arguments, nor do they empathize with the situation of the other party. They treat any concession as a failure. 

2. Adaptation, which is a completely different position from competition. This approach to resolving the conflict does not mean that the parties want to lose, but rather that they want to achieve the goal and maintain good relations with the opponent. Both sides show empathy and listen to each other's needs, striving to make various concessions. 

3. Avoiding when both parties agree to avoid confrontation and unnecessary discussions. This approach leads to a lack of any arrangements. 

4. Cooperation, which is the most effective form of conflict resolution. The fruit of cooperation is a compromise that satisfies both sides equally. 

Conflict management tools include various types of confrontation meetings, negotiations, exchange sessions, mediation, simulations of specific situations and arbitration. 

Communication in a group - what affects its quality? 

Integration at work this is something that cannot be overestimated. Team success depends on the right information reaching the right group members at the right time. The group consists of people with different temperaments and personalities. Some units are characterized by high communication skills, while others still need to work on it. 

Communication in the group should be clear and understandable for all participants. Messages should be clear and concise, and the process of sharing information should becommunication should be based on empathy and empathizing with the attitudes and expectations of other interlocutors. An important rule in the field of interpersonal communication is to maintain consistency between verbal and non-verbal expression. the most importanton the other hand, a friendly and kind attitude towards the interlocutor remains. It can compensate for any deficits in communication skills. 

The composition of the group facing specific goals cannot be accidental, forced or imposed by the current employment structure. The criteria for selecting members should result from the tasks set for the team as well as personal predispositions and competences. The team leader must develop a sense of when to say something and when not to. Inappropriate criticism of one person can disrupt the communication of the whole group. Tactless behavior can increase unnecessary distance. Intimacy-building team meetings will help build trust and strengthen leadership while increasing respect for all group members. 

Building the right relationships in a group requires going through the individual ones integration stages. Effective group communication requires learning – both theoretical and practical. It is an art that needs to be constantly refined and adapted to changing circumstances. The most important skill is active listening and respecting the feelings of others. Effective communication in a group is based on a specific, fast and clear message. We are able to polish all these competences with everyday practice.