Communication types and styles

People’s communication styles have a huge impact on their interactions with the media. In certain cases, effective cooperation aids in dispute mediation as well as problem-solving. Of course, effective contact is important in developing stable relationships and making new friends. As a result, it is critical to provide a thorough knowledge of some of the more common communication methods and forms, as well as how organizations will benefit from good communication.

Aggressive Communication

Aggressive people believe that they are more fortunate than others and that their efforts should be valued more than those of others (Hanke, 2009). Similarly, aggressive communication is the expression of thoughts and feelings in a hostile and forceful manner, usually involving labelling others and accusing them of being wrong all the time. Aggressive communicators usually have unfriendly facial expressions and tonal voices (Hanke, 2009). People who communicate aggressively do not care about the needs of the people they are addressing since their goal is to win every time.

Passive Communication

Unlike in aggressive communication, passive communication is the expression of thoughts in a polite manner. This type of communication involves giving one’s needs the last priority (Hanke, 2009). The fact that passive communicators do not assert their needs makes it appear that people are walking over them. In most instances, people who adopt this style of communication may feel resentful since they cannot stand up for what they want (Hanke, 2009).

Assertive Communication

Assertive communication is the honest expression of feelings and thoughts. It shows how one feels and what they want, without demanding things to work their way (Hanke, 2009). In this style of communication, the interests of both parties matter. Therefore, it can be viewed as an open way of communication, where people share thoughts to arrive at a common goal (Hanke, 2009). Assertive communication does not only give people opportunities to get what they want but also helps in avoiding conflicts and building healthy relationships.

Types of Communication

Verbal Communication

Verbal communication relates to the pattern of communication where the information is passed verbally (Rantala et al., 2011). Communication is done either through a piece of writing or by word of mouth. Occasionally, people presume that their audience understands what they say because they know what they are saying. However, it would be important to note that various audiences bring their diverse attitudes, emotions, and thoughts regarding the subject of discussion hence creating a barrier in passing the right information (Rantala et al., 2011). Verbal communication can be achieved either orally through word of mouth or in written form.

Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal communication refers to the passing of wordless information. In other words, it is the exchange of information without writing or oral aid (Rantala et al., 2011). The means of communication, in this case, include facial expression, tone of voice, posture, body language or gestures (Rantala et al., 2011). This type of information sharing revolves around the body language of the speaker. Often, the nonverbal signs interpret the situation more accurately as compared to the messages passed verbally.

Formal Communication

Formal communication refers to sharing of information through specific conventions, rules, and principles from the sender to the receiver through an authority line. Usually, this type of communication is used in corporate meetings, professional settings, and conferences (Rantala et al., 2011). It requires correct pronunciation of words and discourages the use of foul language.

Informal Communication

Informal communication is a casual talk achieved by using channels that are in contrast with those in formal communication. It is employed in face-to-face discussions and members within a society to pass information. Usually, it happens among family and friends. Unlike in formal communication where the use of foul language or slang words is restricted, informal communication has no similar restrictions (Rantala et al., 2011). Informal type of communication employs both oral language and gestures.

Importance of Communication within an Organization

Communication plays a vital role in every institution. Therefore, it is important for organizations not only to have effective communication but also for the employees to have adequate communication skills. In other words, the development within an organization is contingent on the effectiveness of communication within its management (Femi, 2014). Besides, proper communication assists the managers to carry out the basic management functions such as organizing, planning, controlling, and motivating (Femi, 2014). Thus, effective communication is the foundation of a successful organization.

In addition, effective communication enables an organization to achieve its goals efficiently. Through communication, the top management within an institution can coordinate and organize the activities of an organization hence ensuring smooth operations within the workplace (Femi, 2014). Moreover, effective communication enhances cooperation between workers through sharing their feelings and thoughts with others. Open communication does not only promote cohesiveness within an institution but also encourage teamwork (Femi, 2014). Series of research has also revealed that good communication tends to boost the morale of the employees within their working stations (Femi, 2014). Hence, leading to improved productivity at work. Finally, yet importantly, when the employees believe that they are well informed about the vision and direction of the company, they will feel more secure in what they do.

References

Femi, A. F. (2014). The Impact of Communication on Workers’ Performance in Selected Organisations in Lagos State, Nigeria. Journal Of Humanities And Social Science, 19(8), 75–82. Retrieved from www.iosrjournals.org

Hanke, S. (2009). Communication styles: What is your impact on others? Professional Safety, 2, 22–26. https://doi.org/10.4135/9781412964289.n186

Rantala, J., Raisamo, R., Lylykangas, J., Raisamo, J., Salminen, K., Surakka, V., … Mäkelä, K. (2011). The Role of Gesture Types and Spatial Feedback in Haptic Communication. IEEE Transactions on Haptics, 4(4), 295–306. https://doi.org/10.1109/TOH.2011.4