COMMUNICATION

Communication is the process of transmitting information from the sender to the receiver. It is the process of sharing meaning. The focus of communication is to achieve shared meaning. Communication has taken place when the intended meaning meets the perceived meaning. In other for communication to work, it needs to be a healthy relationship.

When we communicate, keep in mind the audience and purpose. When you communicate, your purpose is not what you want to do; instead, it is what you want your audience to do as a result of reading what you wrote or listening to what you said. Communication serves five major purposes: to inform, to express feelings, to imagine, to influence, and to meet social expectations. When writing, a writer must consider the audience that is being addressed in the write-up. The writer should also put in mind the purpose of writing. Audience and purpose are critical in determining the content, diction, and tone of the article. Content is the information the writer chooses to pass on to the audience.

TYPES OF COMMUNICATION

There are four main types of communication we use on a daily basis: verbal, nonverbal, written, and visual. With all these communication styles, it’s most effective when you know how to actively listen, observe, and empathize.

• VERBAL COMMUNICATION: This is a type of communication wherein the message is transmitted through the use of spoken words. Oral communication is more effective because there is a personal touch. It can be understood clearly, and the doubts can be clarified on the spot. It is one of the most common types, often used during presentations, video conferences and phone calls, meetings, and one-on-one conversations. This comprises aspects of the voice such as intonation, stress, volume, speed, and accent interference. Ways to develop your verbal communication skills;
  • Speak clearly
  • Listen actively
  • Avoid filter words

• NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION: This is the use of body language, gestures, and facial expressions to convey information. It provides insights, supplementary information, and significance in addition to spoken communication. Ways to develop your non-verbal communication skills;
  • Be mindful of your emotions
  • display positive body language
  • Mimic nonverbal communications you find effective

• VISUAL COMMUNICATION: This is the act of using photographs, art, drawings, sketches, charts, and graphs to convey information. Visuals are often used as an aid during presentations to provide helpful context alongside written and/or verbal communication. Ways to develop your non-verbal communication skills;
  • Consider your audience
  • The image should be within the context
  • It should be easy to understand

• WRITTEN COMMUNICATION: This is the act of writing, typing, or printing symbols like letters and numbers to convey information. It is helpful because it provides a record of information for reference. Writing is commonly used to share information through books, pamphlets, blogs, letters, memos, billboards, and more. Ways to develop your written communication skills;
  • Be as simple and clear as possible.
  • Take time to review what you have written
  • Know your purpose and audience.

In all these types of communication, the most important thing to note is that shared meaning is to be achieved.