Types of communication

Question 1

Verbal communication

Answer 1

Verbal communication uses spoken words, including speaking and asking questions.

• Remember to speak clearly, understand the audience that you are speaking to and use an appropriate tone when speaking verbally with them.

Question 2

Non-Verbal communication

Answer 2

Non verbal communication is communication that is not being spoken.

Think of things you can see as the person talks.

This includes eye contact, body language, active listening and self-awareness.

Question 3

Written

Answer 3

Written communication can be used when you need to have an audit trail/log of the communication.

Written communication would be best used for formal communication or communication that is a legal requirement.

Written communication can include emails, memos, reports, forms, online content, social media posts and contracts.

Question 4

Visual

Answer 4

Visual communication uses visual elements to communicate information or ideas.

This can include infographics, presentations, interactive content, motion graphics and images.

Remember that ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’.

Question 5

Listening

Answer 5

Listening is receiving and interpreting a message during communication.

Listening is key to being an effective communicator, as you must ensure you do not misunderstand the message being delivered.

Listening also helps you to build relationships with colleagues and improve the experience of other people being able to communicate with you.

Question 6

Social communication

Answer 6

Depending on the situation, it may be appropriate to merge a range of communication styles such as verbal and non-verbal skills or interpersonal skills.

Question 7

Adapting communication styles

Answer 7

Identifying and being aware of different types of communication is important but it is also important to know when to adapt your communication style according to the target audience.

Question 8

5 steps of adapting your communication style

Answer 8

Establish who your audience is.
Consider what is on their minds.
Decide what they need to know.
Consider what you need them to think about (or the emotion you need them to feel).
Decide on the best type of communication to use to deliver your message.

Question 9

Professional communication

Answer 9

•The greater the size of the audience there is need for a more formal context of speech, clear and concise information, a businesslike tone, direct and relevant facts. There should also be regular updates.

Question 10

Personal communication

Answer 10

•lCommunication with friends and family is informal. It is usually between small numbers of people, can include humour and non-correct language, and can be more emotional.