Other Non Verbal Types of Communication You Should Use

Communication is done by different mediums whether it be by talking, writing or sign language and using the 6 human senses. The effectiveness of communication is also affected by confidence in the context of communication. Here, we are talking about other Non Verbal types of Communication.

1. Written communication

There are so many ways of written communication widely used around the world now because it is FAST and CHEAP. From Telegram, to WhatsApp message to an emails and policy documents in shared drives for many in the group to refer to at any time.

In fact, as we increasingly rely on written communication, we are all faced with just how easy it is to create misunderstandings when using this medium such as:

a) Unclear messages

b) The information gone missing

c) An incorrect understanding of tone or content

The emotional state of those involved in the conversation affects the delivery and understanding of the communication. Sometimes the reader will misread the tone of a message because they are having a bad day, or just had a run-in with an unpleasant person.

When writing to communicate, you need to know when you need to stop using it and when the conversation needs to be over the phone or face to face. A simple call, in almost all cases, can solve these communication problems.

a) Structure

When writing, it is important to think about the flow and order of the information you communicate. Sentences should not be long and dragging. Using paragraphs, full stops, commas and line breaks are vital. Using different font style, size and colour also helps the communication.

If your information has many important points, it is best to emphasise each point separately in point forms or in different paragraphs.

b) Clarity

The more information you can communicate, the clearer the communication can be. Just remember not to clutter the information and make it well organised in writing. Being over detailed is better than being under detailed, depending on who your audience is. If it is a colleague, team mate or friends, you can have easier communication back and forth. But if it is communication with a customer or someone very important like your boss, you should write in as detailed, clear and simple as possible to avoid them asking for further details which would be troubling them.

c) Content

Written content is more formal than verbal usually used between two business entities at work and where money or business is involved. It assures clarity and reassurance of communication which could be used as a basis for future action and reference.

It should be noted that jokes can fall flat without the added context of tone or facial expressions.

Don’t use words or information that have the possibility of upsetting or offending the audience. Especially because it can be recorded by others, don’t create anything that you would regret communicating.

2. Visual communication

Today, visual communication has become and important, if not the most important and used type of communication. This is driven by the social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook, YouTube, and other online platforms.

As these channels have become the most popular use of communication, using visual communication is the norm and people work hard to stand out in a crowded platform. Even for presentations in meetings, since people are so well equipped with design and online tools, your visuals also have to have quality images and graphics.

Prioritising your visual communication in line with your branding and marketing is crucial. There are many ways that visual communication is available such as charts, photographs, sketches, video, graphs, emojis and GIFs. All these help improve and support the understanding of your message.

Charts can simplify complicated data making it easier to visualise and understand. It is much more effective than a text description. Visuals help elevate the understanding of complex ideas and data.

a) Content

When including visuals to your communication, you should consider the following factors:

1. Is it helpful?

2. Is it necessary?

3. Does it add to the overall message?

Not all information need to have visuals and in some cases, they might take away from what you are trying to communicate. The reason for using visuals is to simplify and ease the understanding of the information you want to communicate.

b) Tone

If you are presenting complex data in a form of visuals, include the relevant descriptions so that it can be understood better. Visuals can be accompanied by some text but not too many.

Don’t use images that are too graphic or have the possibility of upsetting or offending the audience. Especially because it can be recorded by others,don’t create anything that you would regret communicating.