logo

Interaction versus Communication

 
Knowledge Center

Communication and Skills

Forum Discussion

Rating

Noor Noor, Malaysia
7
Interaction versus Communication
What is the difference between communication and interaction? Often people use it together but if one defines each of the terms, in what situation are they most suitable to be used? Thank you.

X

Join 12manage

It's free

Welcome to the forums of 12manage. In this discussion we exchange ideas about Interaction versus Communication.

Sign up and discover more than 900 centers about management and business administration.

or

Log in

 

Rating

  Karen Vaartjes Karen Vaartjes
Management Consultant, Netherlands
 
3
Interaction versus Communication
In my opinion communication is a container for any means of expression. It is a more abstract definition than interaction and is not related to any specific relationship, but refers to any information or expression that is being transmitted, in any way (non verbal and verbal).
For example, art can be communicative: it sends out a message, although it might not always be picked up. But whether or not the information or expression is being picked up, it still is considered communication, because information or expression is transmitted.
Interaction however, is (normally) related to people and is happening between two or more people or other living entities, such as animals. It is action and re-action related, and refers to that what is happening in a relationship. Art can (normally) not be interactive. It may send out a message, but is (normally) unable to respond to the reaction of the person looking at the art. So responsiveness to action and reaction is conditional for interaction to take place.

  NASRI Chadia NASRI Chadia, Algeria
 
2
Interaction versus Communication
@Karen Vaartjes: For me, Interaction is just one aspect related to the umbrella term "communication" which seeks at getting people to exchange not only ideas, but even, language, culture, and ego.

  Jaap de Jonge Jaap de Jonge
Editor, Netherlands
 
2
Interaction versus Communication
Interaction is per definition 2-way. Moreover in my opinion it also implies that both or all the parties involved in the interaction actually listen and react to each other.
Communication can take place in 2 directions, but can also be unidirectional (one-way) and passive, like in the case of traditional media.

  Ivy Ivy
Teacher, Netherlands
 
1
Interaction and Communication are Related But Different
INTERACTION and COMMUNICATION are related concepts, but they differ in scope and purpose:
  1. Communication refers to the exchange of information or messages between two or more individuals. Its primary goal is to share understanding, ideas, or emotions. Communication can occur verbally, non-verbally, in writing, or through digital media, with a sender transmitting a message to a receiver who interprets it. Effective communication aims for clarity and comprehension, ensuring that the intended message is understood.
  2. Interaction, on the other hand, involves a broader range of actions where two or more parties actively engage with each other, often responding in real-time. Interaction includes communication but can also encompass non-communicative actions, such as physical movements or collaborative tasks. For example, two people working together on a project are interacting, even if not every aspect of that process involves verbal communication. Interaction emphasizes reciprocal action, where parties influence each other’s responses, making it more dynamic and responsive than communication alone.
In summary:
  • Communication is focused on the exchange of messages or information.
  • Interaction includes communication but also involves actions that facilitate collaboration or reciprocal influence, beyond just verbal or written exchange.

 

Leave a comment





Participate
More on Communication and Skills
Methods, Models and Theories
Forum
topic 25 Common Presentation Mistakes and Tips
topic Understanding Perceptions of Other People and Yourself
topic How to Disagree with a Superior: Recommendations
topic 8 Resolutions for Difficult Interpersonal Conversations
topic What are the Skills a Management Consultant Should Have?
topic Communication Channels: What is Grapevine Communication? Definition and Importance
topic How to Communicate Effectively? Tips
topic How to Give a Powerful 5-Minute Presentation
topic How to Organize a Meeting? Best Practices
topic 10 Tips and Ethics for Attending Business Meetings
topic Problems and Tips on Communicating in a Foreign Language
topic Types of Communication
topic Management versus Life Skills
topic How to Become an Authentic Speaker? Morgan's 4 Underlying Intents
topic Should Leaders and Managers Always Tell the (Hard) Truth?
🔥 The Silo Mentality: Types and Countermeasures
topic Communication Apprehension, Fear of Presenting, Presentation Anxiety
topic The Impact of Culture on Communication
topic Tips for Questioning: Asking Questions and Responding to Them
topic Communication in Management
topic Not Invited... Should you Attend a Meeting?
topic How to Manage (Insidious) Insubordination?
topic Managing a Personal Dispute at Work
topic Role of Communication in New Companies
topic ABC of Good Communication
topic The Impact of Gender on Communication Styles
👀Interaction versus Communication
topic The Role of Morals in Communication


Participate
More on Communication and Skills
Methods, Models and Theories
Forum
topic 25 Common Presentation Mistakes and Tips
topic Understanding Perceptions of Other People and Yourself
topic How to Disagree with a Superior: Recommendations
topic 8 Resolutions for Difficult Interpersonal Conversations
topic What are the Skills a Management Consultant Should Have?
topic Communication Channels: What is Grapevine Communication? Definition and Importance
topic How to Communicate Effectively? Tips
topic How to Give a Powerful 5-Minute Presentation
topic How to Organize a Meeting? Best Practices
topic 10 Tips and Ethics for Attending Business Meetings
topic Problems and Tips on Communicating in a Foreign Language
topic Types of Communication
topic Management versus Life Skills
topic How to Become an Authentic Speaker? Morgan's 4 Underlying Intents
topic Should Leaders and Managers Always Tell the (Hard) Truth?
🔥 The Silo Mentality: Types and Countermeasures
topic Communication Apprehension, Fear of Presenting, Presentation Anxiety
topic The Impact of Culture on Communication
topic Tips for Questioning: Asking Questions and Responding to Them
topic Communication in Management
topic Not Invited... Should you Attend a Meeting?
topic How to Manage (Insidious) Insubordination?
topic Managing a Personal Dispute at Work
topic Role of Communication in New Companies
topic ABC of Good Communication
topic The Impact of Gender on Communication Styles
👀Interaction versus Communication
topic The Role of Morals in Communication
Knowledge Center

Communication and Skills



About 12manage | Advertising | Link to us / Cite us | Privacy | Suggestions | Terms of Service
© 2025 12manage - The Executive Fast Track. V17.2 - Last updated: 25-12-2025. All names ™ of their owners.