What Are the Different Types of Communication

Despite beliefs to the contrary there are really only two types of communication. The first is verbal or spoken communication. The second is non verbal communication. This is sometimes known as body language. These are the communication skills that you use very day. Most times you’re not even aware of what you’re saying to other people which is why it is so important to know all of the details so you can achieve what you want for your life.

Types of Communication: The Verbal Approach

When it comes to the different types of communication, the most common of them all would be verbal communication.

Although verbal communication is about the spoken word, there are other things to take into consideration too. Whatever we have to say is said clearly and explicitly via symbols and sounds and that explicitly state our intent. The important factor to remember here is that words are mainly used here, and this is what separates the verbal approach from other types of communication.

Types of Communication: Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal communication is the more subtle type of communication, and could be even more effective than a verbal approach.

Nonverbal communication is perhaps the most refined way among the different types of communication. Everything from how we use our voice to the slight motions of our facial muscles to how we usually unconsciously move our hands, arms, and overall body, all contain subtle nonverbal messages, which need a great amount of observation and awareness to notice in the first place.

Synergy Between the Two Types of Communication

These two types of communication are essential when you are in a face-to-face conversation with another person, and their combination can either make or break your success.

This is because the verbal types of communication, the words you speak, convey the message you want to say while the nonverbal types of communication, the gestures you show with them, will subtly affect the efficiency of the message you convey to your audience. If the one is not congruent with the other, you can anticipate that you minimize the effectiveness of your message to the other person. People will subconsciously be aware of the discrepancies between the two types of communication, and they will receive the message with suspicion.  

Integrating the Two Types of Communication

It is really straightforward: learn how to match your words with your actions, and your message will be much more powerful and congruent.

Between the two types of communication, nonverbal gestures need especially more care and attention than verbal gestures. Words can easily be spoken and manipulated even before you speak, but the gestures are things that occur naturally and often without any significant amount of thought added to them.

It is for this reason that self-esteem and cultural understanding become essential to improving your nonverbal skills. Your self-esteem will naturally influence your bodily gestures, while cultural understanding will allow you to avoid upsetting your audience with meanings that are unspoken but are evident through your body.

Follow these guidelines and you will experience the basic effect that these two types of communication have on your ability to convince and influence others.

Category: Relationships: Communication