Types of
Communication
Puneet Narang
Assistant Professor
Dept. of Applied Sciences
Contents
Types of Communication
Oral and Written communication
Group and Mass Communication
Formal and Informal communication
Verbal and Non verbal Communication
Types of Communication
We communicate in variety of ways
and for a number of purposes. That
is why communication is classified in
various types.
The choice of communication
depends upon the content, purpose
of communication, receiver and
context.
Oral & Written Communication
Oral Communication
Forms of oral
communication
Various forms of oral communication include
lecture, seminar, group discussion,
meetings, presentation, interview,
telephonic conversation, face to face
conversation, instruction etc.
Oral communication
It is interpersonal communication, hence an
effective mode of discussion
Helps to resolve issues, problems and settle
disputes
Provides immediate feedback.
Flexible to suit the immediate needs or
requirements of the situation
Oral communication
Non-verbal communication also add
meaning.
body language
Tone of speaker
Written communication
Forms of written
communication
Written forms of communication include
letters, reports, proposals, memo, notices,
newsletters, circulars, research papers,
articles, email, fax, manuals, handbooks,
brochures, information booklets etc.
Written Communication
Written communication tends to be formal.
It is used when a record of transactions is
needed.
It is well organized and can be used for
legal purposes
It is precise and well structured.
It enhances clarity in communication
Relative advantages and disadvantages of
oral & Written communication
Formal and Informal Communication
Formal Communication
Formal communication is intentionally
planned and executed to achieve certain
pre-determined goals.
It is completely purposeful activity.
Formal Communication
Formal communication:
People in organizations communicate formally
with those immediately above and below them as
well as those at their own level.
The nature of formal communication differs
according to people’s position in an organization.
For example the information about policies and
procedures originates from executives and flows
down to lower level employees.
Formal Communication
Official communication among people of an
organization, typically , flows through formal
channels.
The information flows in an organization in the
following directions:
Downward Communication
Upward Communication
Horizontal Communication
Diagonal Communication
Informal Communication
It emerges out of free time interactions
which take place among people may be
in personal,social or professional
environments
Informal Communication
Informal communication
Informal communication channels transmit
official news through unofficial and informal
communicative interactions known as
grapevine.
The informal communication network
includes tea time gossip, casual gatherings,
lunch time meetings etc.
Informal Communication
These channels may not be reliable .
Grapevine can contribute positively in group
building.
It also acts as a safety valve for pent up
emotions.
Verbal and Non-verbal
communication
Verbal communication involves usage of
words. Thus it is organized by language.
Non-verbal communication is that which
takes place through means other than
words. It is concerned with body
movements, voice and environment.
Verbal and Non-verbal communication
Verbal and Non-verbal
communication
The effective communication requires to
interpret both verbal and non-verbal cues.
Verbal communication is that
communication which employs language as
medium.
Verbal and Non-verbal
communication
The non-verbal communication can have
the following elements
1. Kinesics (body language)
2. Proxemics (Space utilization)
3. Paralanguage (Tonic aspect)
