Introduction to Communication Skills

Introduction to Communication Skills

• Communication is the process of exchanging information, ideas, or messages between individuals, groups, or organizations.
• Effective communication is critical in various aspects of life, including personal, social, and professional settings.

Defining Communication

• Communication can be defined as the exchange of information, ideas, or messages between a sender and a receiver.
• Alternative definitions of communication include the process of creating and sharing meaning, or the transmission and reception of information.

Types of Communication

• Oral Communication: face-to-face conversation, phone calls, voice chats, or video conferencing.
• Written Communication: emails, letters, reports, or text messages.
• Non-verbal Communication: facial expressions, body language, tone of voice, or gestures.

Advantages of Oral Communication

• Immediate feedback and clarification.
• building relationships and trust.
• Persuasion and negotiation.

Disadvantages of Oral Communication

• Lack of permanent record.
• Distractions or misinterpretations.
• Limited reach or audience.

Written Communication

• Advantages:
  • Permanent record.
  • Easy to revise and edit.
  • Wide reach and audience.

Disadvantages of Written Communication

• Lack of immediate feedback.
• Misinterpretation of tone or intent.
• Time-consuming.

Non-verbal Communication

• Elements:
  • Facial expressions.
  • Body language.
  • Tone of voice.
  • Gestures.
• Functions:
  • Reinforcing or contradicting verbal messages.
  • Conveying emotions or attitudes.
  • Establishing relationships or trust.

Advantages of Non-verbal Communication

• Conveys emotions or attitudes.
• Establishes relationships or trust.
• Supports verbal messages.

Disadvantages of Non-verbal Communication

• Can be culturally specific or misunderstood.
• May contradict verbal messages.
• Limited control over non-verbal cues.

Types of Communication based on Purpose and Style

• Formal or informal communication.
• Vertical or horizontal communication.
• Internal or external communication.
• Mass or interpersonal communication.

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Communication Media

• Audience and purpose.
• Urgency and complexity.
• Feedback and response.
• Cost and accessibility.