What is Communication?
Communication is the process of exchanging information, ideas, thoughts, or feelings between
two or more people to create understanding. Effective communication requires clarity, feedback,
and mutual understanding.
Types of Communication
1. Verbal Communication
Verbal communication uses words (spoken or written) to share messages. It can be further
divided into four forms:
a) Oral Communication
Definition: Transfer of information through spoken words.
Examples: Classroom lectures, meetings, phone calls, face-to-face conversations.
Advantages: Quick feedback, personal connection, immediate clarification.
Disadvantages: Can be misunderstood if not clear, less permanent record.
b) Written Communication
Definition: Use of written symbols (letters, words, numbers) to communicate.
Examples: Emails, reports, letters, notices, text messages.
Advantages: Provides a permanent record, more precise, useful for legal and formal
purposes.
Disadvantages: Time-consuming, feedback is delayed.
c) Visual Communication
Definition: Use of visual aids or symbols to convey meaning.
Examples: Charts, graphs, diagrams, maps, posters, PowerPoint presentations.
Advantages: Makes information clear, simplifies complex data, and attracts attention.
Disadvantages: May be misinterpreted if not explained properly.
d) Electronic Communication
Definition: Exchange of information through digital and electronic devices.
Examples: Social media, video conferencing (Zoom, MS Teams), emails, instant
messaging.
Advantages: Fast, global reach, convenient.
Disadvantages: Risk of miscommunication, lacks personal touch, dependent on
technology.
2. Non-Verbal Communication
Non-verbal communication conveys messages without using words. It includes body language,
gestures, facial expressions, tone, and even silence.
Examples:
o Eye contact (shows confidence or interest).
o Posture (relaxed vs. tense shows attitude).
o Gestures (nodding for agreement).
o Facial expressions (smiling).
o Appearance and clothing (professional image).
Advantages: Universal understanding, supports verbal communication, expresses
emotions clearly.
Disadvantages: Can be easily misunderstood, varies across cultures.
The 7 C’s of communication
Clear
Concise
Concrete
Correct
Consideration
Complete
Courteous
1.) Clear
Convey your message in an easy-to-understand manner. Use short simple sentences while
speaking or writing. The aim is to share your thoughts and ideas with utmost clarity. Clear
messages consist of exact and concrete words.
2.) Concise
Concise means to be to the point without using a lot of words. Avoid using filler words like
“you see”, “at this point of time”, “a lot of sense”, “kind of”, “what I mean”, “sort of”. You need
to ask yourself if there are any unnecessary sentences and if you have written the same
points multiple times. Being concise saves the time of both you and your reader and adds
value to your message.
3.) Concrete
Concrete messages are clear and usually supported with facts. It gives a laser focus touch
to your messages without being vague. There are details in the message without it being
too long. A concrete message is solid and specific.
4.) Correct
Make sure all your facts and figures are accurate with no grammatical errors. Always
proofread your work before presenting it. A correct massage with viable facts will add
5.) Complete
A complete message gives the user all the information and is clear and detailed. When your
message is complete, your audience knows exactly what needs to be done. Make sure all
the facts you want to convey in your message are accurate and there is a clear call to action
present in your message.
6.) Courteous
Being courteous is the most important attribute of communication. Always be friendly and
honest. Respect the speaker while you communicate. Even if you have some feedback that
needs to be pointed out, it can be conveyed in a constructive manner. A courteous
message will leave the speaker in a positive mindset rather than negative one.
7.) Consideration
Consideration is simply keeping in mind the audiences requirements and views while
formulating your message. Follow the ‘You’ approach when dealing with your audience.
Consider their level of education, interests, mindsets, etc. Emphasize what is possible
rather than what’s not when dealing with them. This will result in positive outcomes during
your interactions