2. TYPES OF COMMUNICATION
The distinct categories of communication include the following:
[1] Spoken or Verbal Communication - this includes face-to-face, telephone, radio or television and other media as appropriate.
Words are very powerful when used correctly. They have the power to build or destroy. Words can build bridges that allow people to reach a level of understanding. Words can also destroy relations. Be very careful when choosing your words because people are usually judged by the words they use. Words that communicate positive values and optimistic words are words of strength that will help you reinforce your opinions and convince your recipient of your message. Using appropriate words to put forward your point of view makes you a master at the art of communication. Choose the right vocabulary for each communication
Choosing an appropriate vocabulary usually reveals your level of language proficiency. For example, an expanded vocabulary sets you apart which enhances the process of communication allowing you to convey your message to a large audience with great accuracy and efficiency. In order to communicate better, you should choose your vocabulary according to your target audience. For example, you should use an expanded vocabulary when addressing professionals, while a more basic vocabulary might prove more effective when addressing an uninformed audience.
[2] Non-Verbal Communication. These mediums cover body language, gestures, how we dress or act, where we stand, and even our scent. There are many subtle ways that we communicate (even unintentionally) with others. For example, the tone of voice can give clues to mood or emotional state, whilst exaggerated hand signals or gestures can add to a spoken message.
Despite the extreme importance of verbal communication, non-verbal communication is essential to get your message across. A large percentage of non-verbal communication falls into the following categories:
Speaking Posture
Changing body position (sitting, standing or kneeling) during presentations can have a huge effect and impact on the nature of the message you are sending. For example, sitting creates a more casual, laid-back environment while standing gives the impression of seriousness and professionalism.
Eyes
It is well known that “eyes are the window to the soul”. Looking into the eyes communicates caring. It is a sign of respect and understanding. On the other hand, speaking with others while looking around communicates a lack of interest.
Arms Your arms are another important factor. When it comes to arm body language, there are a few strategies that are commonly used. Expanding your arms helps you appear larger in an attempt to reach out to your audience. This can either have a friendly or threatening effect depending on the context. Actions like crossing the arms while speaking communicates fear, closure, and defensiveness which implies your argument is weak. Likewise, hiding your arms gives the listener an impression of dishonesty and deceit as if you were hiding something.
Hands
It is important to use the hands to communicate for illustration as keeping your hands by your side suggests stiffness and the feeling of being uncomfortable. Dynamic movement of your hands will keep the audience engaged and interested in what you have to say.
[3] Written Communication - this includes letters, e-mails, social media, books, magazines, the Internet and other media. Until recent times, a relatively small number of writers and publishers were very powerful when it came to communicating the written word. Today, we can all write and publish our ideas online freely at will, which has led to an explosion of information and communication possibilities.
[4] Visualizations - by graphs and charts, maps, logos and other graphical designs which can all communicate messages.
116 | The Report • June 2022 • Issue 100
3. THE POWER OF LISTENING
Listening intently to the opinions of others, their points of view and asking for clarification to avoid misunderstanding is very beneficial in many ways: • Gives you time to think over the words said to you and helps you understand the group/person you are communicating with.
• Provides you the chance to decide the perfect approach to the group/ person you are communicating with.
• Emotionally prepares your target audience to listen to you since you listened to them carefully, because it is well known that people want to be heard. So give them 100% attention they will give you theirs in return.
• Provide you with enough time to take notes instead of relying on memory alone to be able to analyze it later.
Listening will allow you to accurately identify your audience which will help you communicate with them better by adapting the techniques that most suit them.
4. BARRIERS TO EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION
• The use of jargon. Avoid using over-complicated, unfamiliar and/or technical terms and acronyms.
• Avoid taboos at all costs. Some topics may be completely ‘off- limits’ or taboo. Taboo subjects may include, but are not limited to, politics, religion, disabilities, sexuality and sex, racism and any opinion that may be seen as unpopular.
• Lack of attention, interest, distractions, or irrelevance to the receiver.
• Differences in perception and viewpoint.
• People often hear what they expect to hear rather than what is actually said and jump to incorrect conclusions.
• Cultural differences. The norms of social interaction vary greatly in different cultures, as do the way in which emotions are expressed.
• Language. Remember that not everyone speaks the same language as you.
A skilled communicator must be aware of these barriers and try to reduce their impact by continually checking understanding and by offering opportunities for appropriate feedback.
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