What Is Communication ?

1. Communication is simply the act of transferring information from

one place, person or group to another. Every communication involves
(at least) one sender, a message and a recipients

2. Communication is a two-way process involving the following

elements: a sender, a message, a medium, a channel, a receiver, a
response and feedback. However, it is not sufficient to have just all
these elements; there should be cooperation and understanding
between the two parties involved.

Types of Communication
The types of communication is classified into two categories, first form
of communication is based on the communication channels, whereas, another
form is based on the style and purpose. Communication channels are referred to
as the medium, means, manner and methods through which communication
takes place between individuals. The senders of information need to ensure that
they make selection of the suitable channels of communication, so the
information gets conveyed to the individuals satisfactorily. Another form of
communication is based on style and purpose. The individuals put into
operation, various types of communication, taking into account the traits of
style and purpose. Furthermore, the communication based on the channels are
non-verbal and verbal. Verbal can be oral and written. Oral communication can
take place among the individuals face-to-face or when they are located at a
distance. Whereas, the communication types based on style and purpose can be
formal and informal (Types of Communication, 2020). The other types of
communication are grapevine communication, feedback communication, visual
communication and active listening. These have been stated as follows: (Types
of Communication, 2020).

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1. Formal Types of Communication

The formal types of communication is also known as official

communication. This type of communication is conducted through the pre-
determined channel. Within one’s profession, the individuals need to
communicate with number of individuals. These include, employers,
supervisors, colleagues, clients etc. Formal communication forms the core of
the professional lives of the individuals. In the effective implementation of this
type of communication, there are various factors, which need to be taken into
account. These include, purpose of communication, following the well-defined
structure of knowing one’s audience, keeping the tone open and professional,
taking into consideration the time limit and thanking the audience for listening.
When the individuals are giving presentations or speeches, then they need to
thank their audience for listening. Formal types of communication leads to
adequate performance of job duties. Therefore, it is vital for the individuals to
be well-aware of this type of communication in order to augment their
professionalism and achieve organizational goals.

2. Informal Types of Communication

Informal communication is put into operation within the organizations

among colleagues as well as among superiors and subordinates. This type of
communication is also known as unofficial or grapevine communication. The
word-of-mouth information is regarded as the primary characteristic of this type
of communication. The main features of this type of communication are, it is
spontaneous and free-flowing without any formal protocol or structure. Hence,
the level of accuracy and reliability is less in this type of communication. The
individuals do not have to follow the rules or take into consideration, the time
limit. In most cases, it is carried out orally and does not require document
evidence. Informal communication is considered user-friendly and is

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advantageous to the individuals, when it is put into practice wisely. Within the
organizations, when the individuals are carrying out this form of
communication, they encourage positive ideas and expressions. As a result, they
develop motivation towards their work. Therefore, informal types of
communication are important in creating an amiable and pleasant working
environmental conditions.

3. Oral Communication (Face-to-Face)

Oral communication that takes place face-to-face is regarded as most common

and recognized type of communication. When the individuals are
communicating with each other face-to-face, they aim that through words, they
are able to express directly to others. This communication can be formal as well
as informal. The individuals communicate face-to-face within the organizations
with other members and outside the organizations, it takes place with family
members, friends, relatives, community members etc. In face-to-face oral
communication, there are various factors, which need to be taken into account.
These include, maintaining eye contact, keep the tone and expressions decent,
they need to suit the message that needs to be conveyed, one should not depict
any negative feelings such as, anger and frustration and develop confidence.
When the individuals are delivering lectures, speeches and presentations, they
need to be confident and not depict any kind of vulnerability and
apprehensiveness. When these factors are put into operation, the individuals are
able to hone their oral communication skills, when communicating face-to-face.

4. Oral Communication (Distance)

Oral communication can take place among the individuals in an

appropriate manner, when they are located at a distance. This communication is
common and is an integral part of the lives of the individuals. In communicating
orally with individuals, who are located at a distance, there are number of

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methods and technologies, which are utilized. These include, mobile phones,
VOIP, video-conferencing, 2-way webinars and so forth. These are regarded as
modern and innovative methods, through which oral communication can be
promoted among individuals, when they are located at a distance. In the
effective implementation of this type of communication, tone of voice and pace
of delivery are regarded as crucial. The important factors that need to be taken
into account in promoting oral communication at a distance are, listening,
speaking slowly, reiterating the information that is understood and keeping the
tone of voice open and receptive. In some cases, when the individuals are
unable to understand the concepts and other information clearly through oral
communication, they may ask to send them through email.

5. Written Communication

Written communication is the type of communication that takes place in a

written form. The common forms of written communication are letters, notices,
emails, messages, advertisements and so forth. When the information is lengthy
and comprise of images, pictures, charts, graphs, statistical data and so forth,
then it cannot be imparted orally to the individuals. In such cases, written
communication is regarded as one of the indispensable ways of imparting
information. When the individuals are to send documents and reports, then they
simply get them scanned and send them through email. When the individuals
are communicating with each other in a written form, they need to take into
account various factors, these include, addressing appropriately, making use of
decent words, stating the information in a clear and understandable manner,
stating all the necessary concepts and concluding well by saying thank you and
putting the name and signatures. In order to implement written communication
in an effective manner, it is vital for the individuals to up-grade their skills in
terms of various forms of technologies. When they are well-equipped in terms

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of usage of computers, lap-tops, I pads and mobile technologies, they will be
able to carry out written communication satisfactorily.

6. Non-Verbal Type of Communication

Non-verbal type of communication is more subtle. It takes place in the daily

lives of the individuals as well as within organizational structures. In the
implementation of this form of communication, there are number of factors that
need to be taken into consideration. These include facial expressions, gestures,
body language, eye contact, touch, space and the personality of the individuals.
In this type of communication, there are three important features, which need to
be identified. These are, what is said with words, what is shared with postures
and gestures and the feelings of the individuals influence the messages and
information that is imparted. The non-verbal information cues, the way one
looks, listens, moves and reacts convey to the individuals that one is
communicating with whether or not they are concerned. Furthermore, it is vital
for the individuals to impart truthful information. The five roles of non-verbal
communication are, repetition, contradiction, substitution, complementing and
accenting (Nonverbal Communication, 2019). In order to bring about
improvements in non-verbal type of communication, one of the significant
aspects is, the individuals need to curb the psychological problems of anger,
stress, frustration, depression and anxiety. Furthermore, they need to form a
constructive approach and possess an approachable nature. When the
individuals are able to augment these factors, they are able to enhance non-
verbal types of communication.

7. Grapevine Communication

Grapevine is regarded as the form of informal communication. It takes place

both in the internal as well as external informal channels, which lead to
effective functioning and benefit of the organization. Research has indicated

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that in various types of organizations, the individuals do not follow any
systematic process of communication, but it takes place among individuals
without following any prescribed or predetermined rules. Through the
grapevine, information flows in different directions, establishing connections
between various aspects of the organization. This type of communication is
governed by social and personal relationships, rather than any recognized rules
and formalities. Grapevine operates in internal and external informal channels.
Through this form of communication, the individuals pass rumours, opinions
and suspicions that generally do not move through formal channels. Pleasant
and amiable environmental conditions within the organizations are essential in
developing the sense of belongingness among the individuals. In this manner,
they are able to work in collaboration with each other, obtain support and
assistance and incur the feeling of job satisfaction. Within organizations, there
are number of situations, issues and concerns, regardless of their size and
nature. The presence of grapevine is more a product of the situation than it is to
the person (Grapevine Communication, 2017).

8. Feedback Communication

When the individuals, who are in leadership positions in educational institutions

and in various forms of organizations, such as, instructors, supervisors, heads,
directors, employers and so forth, put into operation various types of assessment
methods to evaluate the performance of the individuals. After evaluating the
performance, they provide them feedback in terms of their performance. Hence,
the communication that takes place is termed as feedback communication. The
main objective of feedback communication is to make provision of support and
assistance to the individuals to overcome the limitations and bring about
improvements. In the implementation of feedback communication in an
efficient manner, these individuals need to take into account various factors,
these include, inculcating the traits of morality and ethics, being honest and

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truthful, following the standards and principles and giving constructive
criticism. When the individuals experience set-backs in their performance, then
limitations need to be identified in a constructive manner. Furthermore, the
individuals, in leadership positions need to make provision of help, support and
assistance to their students and employees to identify the inconsistencies and
bring about improvements. Therefore, within educational institutions at all
levels and various types of organizations, this type of communication is
regarded as crucial and beneficial.

9. Visual Communication

Visual communication is also the type of communication that is common in the

daily lives of the individuals. The main areas through which visual
communication takes place is through televisions, radios, social networking and
so forth. When the individuals are watching television or listening to radio
programs, then also they are engaged in a form of communication. In some
cases, they are not only utilising these for leisure and recreational purposes, but
they are also augmenting their knowledge and understanding in terms of various
aspects. When the individuals are communicating with others, then in most
cases, their objective is to enhance their knowledge and understanding.
Therefore, through some television shows and radio programs as well, the
individuals are able to augment their knowledge and understanding. Facebook is
visual with the use of memes, videos, images and so forth. Instagram is the only
image platform, and the advertisers make use of this platform to market their
products (Five Types of Communication, 2018). The images that are posted on
social media have the major purpose of conveying the meaning and
communicating the message. The individuals are engaged in communications
throughout the day. In other words, it takes place on a continuous basis.
Therefore, visual communication is also one of the important types of
communication.

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Why is Communication Important?
From personal relationships, to business and our workplace, communication is a
make-or-break skill. Among many benefits, communicating well helps you form
closer relationships, bring cohesion to teams, and take on leadership roles.

Let’s examine the art of effective communication, with a particular emphasis on

why communication is important in so many aspects of our lives.

Importance of Good Communication Skills

Communication is at the root of what makes us human, and a core part of our
society. Great communicators enjoy more fulfilling relationships and connect
faster with others on many levels.

Beyond enabling us to have rapport with others, communication plays significant

roles in many aspects of our personal and professional lives.

Why Communication is Important for Leaders

Communication is a key attribute of good leaders. In fact, excellent communication
is considered a core leadership function and is one of the front-line metrics used to
evaluate leaders.

Leaders who communicate well excel in operations and planning, and are able to
communicate skillfully across multiple levels, from team level, to the boardroom,
and beyond.

Here’s what good communication skills can bring if you are in a leadership
position, whether within or outside your organisation.

Tips for Effective Communication

 An intention for connection. ...
 Listen more than you speak. ...
 Understand the other person first. ...
 Understand needs, wishes and values. ...
 Begin with empathy. ...
 Take responsibility for your feelings. ...
 Make requests that are practical, specific and positive. ...

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  Use accurate, neutral descriptions…

Conclusion

The understanding of the types of communication enable the individuals to

develop communication skills. The types of communication are, the formal
types of communication, informal types of communication, oral communication
(face-to-face), oral communication (distance), written communication, non-
verbal type of communication, grapevine communication, feedback
communication, visual communication and active listening. Sign languages are
the native languages of the deaf community and make provision of complete
access to communication. Although, the sign languages are made use of in most
cases by the individuals, who suffer from hearing impairments and the
individuals, who are mute. The facial expressions of the individuals influence
the communication processes to a major extent. Therefore, it is vital for the
individuals to develop positive thinking and keep normal and pleasant facial
expressions. Finally, it can be stated that it is essential for the individuals to
ensure they should not let any negative viewpoints and perspectives to become
barriers within the course of all types of communication.

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