There are four main types of workplace communication: verbal, body, phone and written. During any point in the workday, you are always faced with at least one. Understanding how to communicate within these fields can be one of the most delicate skills an employee can learn.
In this article, we will focus on the 4 types of communication: verbal, non-verbal, visual, and written. Proper use of all four methods is vital for our work efficiency and professional success, so there is much to gain from developing soft skills.
Communication can be categorized into three basic types: (1) verbal communication, in which you listen to a person to understand their meaning; (2) written communication, in which you read their meaning; and (3) nonverbal communication, in which you observe a person and infer meaning.
The standard methods of communication are speaking or writing by a sender and listening or reading the receiver. Most communication is oral, with one party speaking and others listening.
SALT has highlighted five key strategies, the Communication High 5 (face to face; thinking time; questions into comments; wow words; and signs/symbols/objects) for staff to target in order to support early language skills.
Standard 6 of the Care Certificate explores communication. This includes the different types of communication, how to communicate effectively with individuals, removing barriers to communication and the importance of confidentiality.
Effective communication is the process of exchanging ideas, thoughts, opinions, knowledge, and data so that the message is received and understood with clarity and purpose. When we communicate effectively, both the sender and receiver feel satisfied.
Communication barriers are something that prevents us from correctly getting and accepting the messages others use to communicate their information, thoughts and ideas. Some of the examples of communication barriers are information overload, choosy perceptions, workplace gossips, semantics, gender differences, etc.
Lack of attention, interest, distractions, or irrelevance to the receiver. (See our page Barriers to Effective Listening for more information). Differences in perception and viewpoint. Physical disabilities such as hearing problems or speech difficulties.
Which of the below should you avoid in your communication?
Which of these must be avoided for effective communication? Explanation: Ambiguity must be avoided. Clarity and crispness of the message is very important. The sender of the message should be careful to see that the receiver does not have to go beyond the text of the message.
Effective communicators have open and honest communication, active listening skills, and a friendly tone in conversation to avoid misunderstandings. Deliver good or bad news with empathy, and listen and hear what the other person is saying.
