It is essential that police officers at all levels and in all areas be trained in the techniques of communicating, since it is important in operations work, in internal interactions, and in public relations. Communication occurs when an idea is passed from one person to another and is received and understood by the receiver exactly as the sender intended. In communicating, the sender must be aware of receiver characteristics that will affect his/her capacity to receive messages, such as language, intelligence, education, experience and background, the receiver's vocabulary, the receiver's attitudes and emotional states, and the receiver's health and well-being. All of these characteristics of the receiver should be taken into account as the sender selects the manner, form, and vocabulary of the presentation. Senders also need to be aware of nonverbal communicators, such as voice level, body posture, and other physical movements and signs. Nonverbal factors can not only aid or hinder communication, but when observed in receivers, they can signal whether the receiver is receiving and understanding the communication. Good communication is clear, concise, comprehensive, positive, and courteous. Being a facilitator of good communication also involves being a good listener. This involves concentration on the words used while observing nonverbal messages and having an interest in what the sender is communicating. Part 2 of this article will be in the April 1982 issue.