Types of Communication

   When we talk to others or write to them, communication takes place between us. But for

such a communication, language is essential. Communication with the help of words is known

as verbal communication. Similarly when we meet our friends, we shake our hand with

them. This also conveys some meaning. This is an example of non-verbal communication.

Communication without any use of words is called non-verbal communication. Let us know

further about these two.

   Verbal communication is made through words, either spoken or written. Communication

through spoken words is known as oral communication, which may be in the form of lectures,

meetings, group discussions, conferences, telephonic conversations, radio message etc. In

written communication, message is transmitted through written words in the form of letters,

memos, circulars, notices, reports, manuals, magazines, handbooks, etc.

  Non-verbal communication may be ‘Visual’, ‘Aural’ or ‘Gestural’. Sometimes you look

into some pictures, graphs, symbols, diagrams etc. and some message is conveyed to you.

All these are different forms of visual communication. For example, the traffic policeman

showing the stop sign, a teacher showing a chart of different animals are visual communication.

   Bells, whistles, buzzers, horns etc. are also the instruments through which we can communicate

our message. Communication with the help of these type of sounds is called 'aural'

communication. For example, the bell used in schools and colleges to inform students and

teachers about the beginning or end of periods, siren used in factories to inform the change

of work–shift of the workers are examples of aural communication.

   Communication through the use of various parts of the human body, or through body language

is termed as gestural communication. Saluting our national flag, motionless position during

the singing of national anthem, waving of hands, nodding of head, showing anger on face,

etc. are examples of gestural communication.

Types of Communication

Verbal
Oral
Written


Non-Verbal
Visual
Aural
Gestural