Best 4 Types of Communication and How To Improve Them

Good communicators create a productive and pleasant work environment. Communication is the process of conveying information from one person to another or to a group of individuals. It is considered a "soft skill" or a "interpersonal skill." There are various channels of interaction, and they all contribute to the dissemination of knowledge.

This article delves into four distinct modes of communication and offers advice on how to improve your abilities in each.

Importance of communication

Almost every aspect of our lives necessitates the usage of communication, including the job. Building relationships, exchanging ideas, assigning tasks, managing a team, and many other activities require some type of communication, whether it's a nod of the head in agreement or a full-blown presentation.

Improving your communication abilities can open doors for you professionally, make you more marketable to employers, and expand your professional network. It takes time and effort, but everyone can improve their communication and interpersonal abilities.

Types of communication

The techniques in which we communicate with one another are varied. You might employ verbal communication, for instance, when giving a presentation to a group. Sending an email or a cover letter for a job application are both examples of written communication. A closer look at the four most common types of speech follows.

1. Verbal

When two people talk or use sign language to exchange information, they are said to be communicating verbally. It's a frequent format for talks, phone calls, in-person meetings, and even casual chats with friends. Verbal exchanges are crucial due of their effectiveness. Complementing spoken communication with written and nonverbal cues can be effective.

Use a strong, confident speaking voice.

Speak with authority and self-assurance. Use a loud, clear voice whether speaking to a small or large gathering to ensure that everyone can hear you. Talk with self-assurance so that people can easily grasp what you're trying to say.

Avoid filler words.

Use less filler words. Using filler words like "um," "like," "so," and "yeah" might be tempting, especially when giving a presentation. It may be natural to pause after finishing a phrase or gathering your thoughts, but doing so can be distracting to your listeners. If you feel you need help recognizing when you're using filler words, practice your presentation in front of a trusted friend or colleague. If you find yourself reaching for them, try replacing them with a deep breath instead.

2. Nonverbal

Body language, gestures, and facial expressions are all forms of nonverbal communication. It's versatile enough to be employed on purpose or by accident. When you hear something interesting or exciting, you could smile unconsciously. If you want to know what people are thinking and feeling, you should pay attention to their nonverbal cues.

People that exhibit "closed" body language, such as by crossing their arms or hunching their shoulders, may be experiencing negative emotions. Their "open" body language, where they have both feet on the floor and their arms are at their sides or resting on the table, indicates that they are in a good mood and ready to listen.

Notice how your emotions feel physically.

Be aware of the bodily manifestations of your feelings. Try to pinpoint exactly where in your body you feel the many feelings you encounter throughout the day, whether they be excitement, boredom, joy, or frustration. If you're apprehensive, for instance, you can feel a tightness in your gut. You can gain more control over your outward persona by increasing your awareness of the physiological effects of your emotions.

Be intentional about your nonverbal communications.

Take care to control your nonverbal cues. When you're feeling attentive, open, and optimistic about your surroundings, it will be easier to project positive body language. Anxiety or confusion over information can be communicated verbally and by body language, such as a wrinkled brow. Communicate not just with words, but also with your body, by pulling the presenter aside for a private conversation or asking follow-up questions.

3. Visual

Photographs, paintings, drawings, sketches, charts, and graphs are all examples of visual communication. Presentations benefit greatly from the incorporation of visuals to supplement the written and/or spoken word. Due to individual differences, some people may find it easier to absorb information if it is presented in a visual format.

Ask others before including visuals.

Get feedback from others before adding images. If you want to include a visual assistance in your presentation or email, you might want to get some input beforehand. Visuals have the potential to either clarify or cloud a concept. If you're not sure whether or not the graphic improves your messages, getting a second opinion can be helpful.

Consider your audience. 

Keep your target market in mind. Make use of clear illustrations to help your readers follow along. Take the time to explain the visual and how it relates to what you are saying, for instance if you are showing a chart with new data. It's always a bad idea to depict anything delicate, offensive, violent, or graphic.

4. Written

The exchange of information through the use of letters, numbers, and other graphic symbols is known as written communication. It's useful since it preserves data in a searchable format. Books, pamphlets, weblogs, letters, memoranda, and many other forms of written communication are used to disseminate knowledge. Workplace writing communication typically takes the shape of emails or online conversations.

Don’t rely on tone.

Never rely on tone alone. Be cautious when attempting to convey a particular tone in writing, as you lack the nuances of spoken and nonverbal communication. Attempts to convey humor, irony, or excitement, for instance, may be received in varying ways, depending on the listeners. Instead, strive for clarity and simplicity in your written work, supplementing it with spoken exchanges that allow for more expression of your individuality.

Take time to review your written communications.

Don't rush into sending anything written. Rereading your emails, letters, or memos might help you catch typos and find better ways to express yourself. It's always a good idea to get another pair of eyes on something that's going out to a lot of people or is otherwise significant.