This document discusses communication skills and effective communication. It defines communication as conveying messages through ideas, opinions, thoughts, feelings and more using speech, writing, gestures or symbols. There are three main ways of communication - aggressive, passive, and assertive. Assertive communication respects both oneself and others. Barriers to effective communication include poor listening skills, unclear or inconsistent speaking, and making assumptions. Components of communication include verbal and non-verbal aspects as well as listening. The document provides tips for reducing communication gaps such as planning, listening, justifying positions without upsetting others, and being transparent.