Validating the Seven Smart Communication Paradigms in the Workplace: A Conceptual and Empirical Study

Abstract

In contemporary organizational settings, communication is increasingly recognized as a functional and strategic competency with implications for collaboration, performance, and culture. Despite this, few empirically grounded communication models address the unique socio-cultural dynamics of Southeast Asian workplaces, particularly in Indonesia. This study investigates the workplace applicability of the Seven Smart Communication Paradigms proposed by Ginting, using a structured 56-item survey administered to 116 professionals across various industries. Each paradigm was operationalized through multiple items, and internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s Alpha (α = 0.737–0.917). The findings demonstrated high construct reliability and strong participant alignment with the framework. Marked attention was given to empathy, data-driven communication, and process orientation, while culturally embedded elements—such as sungkan (reluctant courtesy)—revealed significant contextual nuance. These insights robustly confirm the model’s relevance for training, communication audits, and future cross-cultural research initiatives.