The Three Types of Communication

There are three types of communication: verbal, nonverbal, and written.

Verbal communication. Verbal messages are spoken aloud and communicate meaning when heard. When communicating verbally, you’ll use your words and tone of voice to share information with others. Examples of verbal communication include phone and video calls, in-person conversations, and speeches.
Nonverbal communication. Nonverbal messages are wordless. These messages communicate meaning when seen. Examples of nonverbal communication include your body language, facial expressions, physical appearance, and actions (such as when you hold the door for others).
Written communication. Written messages are text-based and communicate meaning when read. Examples of written communication include emails, texts, instant messages, memos, proposals, and letters.

How to Use the Three Types of Communication Effectively

You can become a more skilled communicator by learning how to use verbal, nonverbal, and written communication effectively. Take a look at the examples below, let’s see how each of these messages could be shared more effectively:

Verbal:

Speaking Slowly and Clearly. How might you hear the message: “Hithankyoufor returningmycall”? When messages are spoken too quickly or too quietly, we’re likely to miss valuable details. Consider how this message can be vocalized more effectively if it’s spoken slowly and confidently: “Hi, thank you for returning my call.”

Nonverbal:

Be Aware of Your Nonverbal Cues. A promising job candidate shows up for an interview, but he’s hunched over, his arms are crossed, and his clothes are wrinkled. Think about how you might have received this candidate differently if he wore a clean, pressed suit, sat up straight, and used open, friendly gestures.

Written:

Grammar, Spelling, and Punctuation. “It is great meetin you today at ours offfice. I look fowrd to doing businez wit you in the future.” Even if you had a great meeting with this person, they’d probably ruin their credibility if they sent an email riddled with errors. Let’s try that again: “It was great meeting you today at our office. I look forward to doing business with you in the future.”

M2:S1 - How to use verbal, non-verbal and written communication

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