Communication Methods

A connected team and a connected organization in today’s world is the only way we can achieve greater things. Connections and relations are built with exchange of thoughts and information. Communication serves as a valuable mechanism in building these connections and engagement between people. 

Communication is a very important skill and art. There are four different ways we communicate with others. No matter what form of communication we choose, it is important to have the right intention to connect with the other person.

1. Written

It refers to printed or recorded materials such as plans, contracts, memos, minutes of the meeting, requirement analysis document, design documents risk registers and other related written materials. It is used to provide well-thought and well-planned details, thus easily to be reviewed than verbal communication because everything that has been written cannot be altered right away. More so, it can be used for future reference. 

Written communication can be time consuming, but is extremely essential for formal scenarios which require approvals and having legal implications as well. Emails have ushered in a revolution in making written communication very fast and thus have become a preferred mechanism for sharing detailed information in fraction of a second. 

2. Oral/Verbal

It involves the exchange of message or information by using words verbally through face to face or telephone conversations. It is the most common type of conversation as it paves way to get feedback right after receiving the message. It is known to be spontaneous as well. In verbal communication, the ability to listen and think carefully before speaking is critical.

A person must be careful of the words or expressions to be said. Any word that has been spoken cannot be taken back, so it is important to formulate expressions or sentences carefully.

3. Non-Verbal

Non-verbal communication is sending information without the use of words. It is mostly through one’s body language, gestures, eye-contacts, appearance, pitch and tone of one’s voice etc. one can communicate huge amount of feelings and emotions. 

They say, “It is important to understand what has not been said explicitly”. 

Non-verbal communication includes, body-language, paralanguage (pitch and tone of voice), appearance etc. Research has shown that nonverbal cues or body language along with facial expressions, tone of voice and body stance account for almost 55% of all the communication that takes place.

4. Visual Communication

“A picture is worth a thousand words”. Visual aids such as animation, colour, illustration, graphs & charts, drawing, signs and logos immensely enhance written communication. Visual communication is also used in the right balance for making information sharing more effective and efficient.

Conclusion:

Communication is an art. The above are different methods of exchanging information to communicate. All the methods are used for specific expected outcomes and purpose of communication.