Real Communication An Introduction

30 Part 1  Basic Communication Processes

After Hurricane Sandy

At the beginning of the chapter, we talked about how

Hurricane Sandy left one area of New York City not only

physically devastated but also isolated in terms of communica-

tion and services. Let’s consider the importance of different

channels of communication in an emergency.

c Different channels of communication are crucial in the aftermath of a hur-

ricane. The loss of landline phones, which normally work in the event of

a blackout, left the elderly and housebound particularly vulnerable. Here,

face-to-face communication became vital: checking in on neighbors and

door-to-door canvassing saved lives. Meanwhile, established organizations

like FEMA and the Red Cross were largely overshadowed by the efforts of

small, informal groups that formed and reacted quickly to provide help for

those affected. Without social networking, it’s unlikely that those seeking to

help would have been able to connect as effectively with one another and

with those in need (Nessen, 2012).

c Those outside the affected area might have seen the logic in Mayor Michael

Bloomberg’s initial decision to hold the marathon as planned: After all, it

would bring much needed revenue to the city, which was facing a costly

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c Public Speaking. Don’t panic! We’re going to provide a lot of help and guid-

ance to assist you as you become a competent public speaker. Even if you’ve

never had to speak in front of a group before, in Part 4 you’ll learn not only

how to research and develop a presentation but also how to connect with

your audience on a personal level. We also offer tips on becoming a more

critical audience member whether you are engaged with a speaker in a lec-

ture hall, a protest rally, or a professional conference.

c Mass Communication. Has your little brother tried to karate-kick the dog (or

you) after watching a martial arts cartoon? Did you feel depressed after Glee

aired its last episode? TV, radio, film, and much of the Internet are impor-

tant parts of American culture and can be significant parts of our individual

lives as well. Professional communicators in the mass media industries work

hard to get and keep our attention. But audiences have the power to reject

media messages too. In Appendix B, we explore the study of mass communi-

cation and new technology, including the forces that shape media messages

and the effects media messages can have on the attitudes and behaviors of

audiences.

We are confident that this book will provide you with an enjoyable read-

ing experience as well as help you improve your communication. As a result,

your life, your work, your relationships, and your ability to speak out will all be

enhanced.

Did you choose to take this

course, or is it required?

Regardless of why you’re

here, what do you hope to

learn? What kind of com-

munication most interests or

intrigues you? What part of

this book or course do you

think will be most applicable

to your life, future study, or

professional career?

AND YOU?