Methods of Communication - Part I

There are various ways to convey that thought in your mind. Several people do it in different ways that suit them and the situation. Depending on the task at hand, one may choose one or a combination of several methods to convey the message to the opposite person or group of people. There are primarily two methods of communication, verbal and non-verbal. Verbal communication, as the name suggests uses words to convey the thoughts, idea or feelings. Non-verbal communication, on the other hand, relies primarily on actions and gestures and all other means to convey the information, all except words from any language.

Types of Verbal Communication

Oral Communication: There are two main types of verbal communication - oral and written. Oral communication uses words in the form of spoken language. A classroom lecture, speech by a politician, a battalion of soldiers being briefed before a task are all examples of oral communication. Oral communication can also take place among individuals who are currently not face to face with each other. At such times, one may rely upon technology to overcome the barrier of distance and may use a telephone, a walkie-talkie or a similar device.

Oral Communication is also the primary mode of communication in situations such as group discussions, meetings (formal and informal), conferences, etc. One may note down the important points in a written format at such situations, but the conversation always takes place orally.

Written Communication: Written Communication uses words in the form of text which is usually written down or in some cases typed and published. This type of verbal communication needs more grasp of the language because of the need to strictly adhere to the rules of grammar, in order to make the text an effective piece of communication. This type of communication mainly takes place when the two parties are not face to face with each other. Written communication offers several advantages over oral communication, especially in the case of a corporate environment. We shall discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both in a later post.

Written communication is primarily used in the case of letters, memos, submitting or preserving reports, issuing notices and circulars, etc.

Stay tuned for a detailed analysis on non-verbal communication in the next post.