Types of Communication and its characteristics

Communication is the meaningful interaction with people in such a manner that the ideal that the ideal thought is same and getting the feedback also. Communication is commonly defined as “the exchange of thoughts, ideas, feelings, information,opinions, and knowledge”. It also involves mutuality of understanding.

Definitions of Communication:

• Communication is meaningful interaction.
• Communication is information sharing.
• Communication is a link force.
• Communication is understanding.
• Communication is fundamental requisite of life.

Important Characteristics of Communication:

• It is a 2-way process.
• Communication process happens between or among two or more parties. (Sender and Receiver)
• Communication involves exchange of ideas, feelings, information, thoughts, and knowledge.
• Communication involves mutuality of understanding between Sender and Receiver.
• There are two types of Communication i.e., Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication.

Forms/ Types of Communication:

Verbal Communication:

1. Oral Communication: Oral communication is information spoken by mouth; the use of speech. Some of the examples of Oral Communication are: Face to face communication,Telephonic Communication, Public Address System (Speech), Informal rumor mill (Grape Wine), Audio & Visual Media(Radio, TV), Lectures, Conference-Interchange of views, Meetings, Cultural Affairs.
2. Written Communication: Communication by means of written symbols (either printed or handwritten). Some of the examples are: Orders, Instructions, Letters, Memos, Reports, Policy manuals, Information Bulletin, Complaint System, Suggestion System, etc

Nonverbal Communication:

1. Body Language includes facial expression, eye contact, postures, gestures, touch.
2. Para Language is the way we say something rather than what we say, is another nonverbal code.
3. Space and Time Language:
   
   Space Language includes surroundings (Design & Language). It communicates social status also.
4. Sign Language: A sign language is a language which, instead of conveyed sound patterns, uses visually transmitted sign patterns.