What Is a Communication Medium, and Why Does It Matter?

A communication medium is the method you use to deliver your message. We have many options at our disposal, but four of the most common delivery methods include connecting in person, via a video call, over the phone, and through written text.

When selecting a medium, it’s important to consider the impact of your decision. Specifically, by choosing the right medium for your situation and your message, you’re more likely to improve the understanding of your communication.

Depending on your situation and your message, each medium has its strengths. Moving from most to least personal, expand the rows below to learn when in-person, video, phone, and written communication will serve you best.

In-Person

Shows emotion. Whether you’re confessing a mistake, ending a relationship, or terminating someone’s employment, it’s difficult to deliver bad news. But consider how this information can seem cold and impersonal if it’s shared over a text message or in an email. If your message is emotional—whether positive or negative—it’s best given in person. You’ll then have the benefit of being able to use your tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language to better express yourself and handle the situation delicately.

Encourages collaboration. If you need to have an interactive dialogue, an in-person meeting will allow you to check in with your receivers and offer on-the-spot feedback. That is especially helpful if you’re experiencing miscommunication, as you can rely on verbal and nonverbal cues to better clarify your meaning and understand others.

Video

Allows remote meetings. Video is often considered the next best thing to being there in person. If you’re separated by physical distance, but still need to meet face-to-face, video communication is a great option.

Shows emotion. Similar to an in-person meeting, the video medium will allow you to use your body language and other nonverbal cues to add personality and emotion to your communication.

Encourages collaboration. When communicating over video, you’ll receive instant responses and feedback, which aids in collaboration. You’ll also have the benefit of relying on verbal and nonverbal cues to better express yourself and understand others.

Phone

Expresses urgency. There’s a reason why we call the police during an emergency. Phone calls are great for urgent messages because they’re immediate, require no scheduling, and allow you to receive instant feedback (so long as the other person picks up).

Shows emotion. While you can’t rely on nonverbal cues during a phone call, you’ll still have the chance to use your tone of voice and inflection. That can help you to add a bit of personality and emotional expression to your message.

Encourages one-on-one collaboration. If you need to collaborate one-on-one (or clarify a message), a short phone call will give you the opportunity to have a back-and-forth conversation and get immediate feedback.

Written

Stays on track. It’s often easier to organize our information when it’s written down. If your message is specific—and doesn’t require a lot of feedback from your receiver—sending a written message will help you stay on track.

Provides a record. Written communication has the advantage of being permanent. You can archive written messages and search for them later.

Saves time. If you’re in a hurry, written communication allows you to share your message without having to coordinate schedules.

M2:S2 - Choosing the right communication medium

PREVIOUS STEP

How to use verbal, non-verbal and written communication

NEXT STEP