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Communication - Written Vs Verbal

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Sabir Hussain (HOD-English IGC-Grw) Technical Writing & Presentation Skills

Concept of Communication; Written vs Verbal

Communication
Communication is the process of exchanging information, ideas, thoughts, or feelings
between individuals or groups. It can occur through verbal, non-verbal, written, or visual
means. Effective communication fosters understanding and connection, while barriers can lead
to misunderstandings and confusion. It's essential in personal and professional relationships.

Purpose of Communication
The purpose of communication is to share information, express thoughts and feelings,
facilitate understanding, and build relationships. It enables collaboration, resolves conflicts,
and enhances social interactions. Effective communication fosters connection and
engagement, allowing individuals and groups to achieve common goals and navigate various
situations in personal and professional contexts.

Elements of Communication

1) Sender: The individual or group initiating the message. The sender encodes the
information to be communicated.
2) Message: The actual content or information that is being conveyed. It can be verbal, non-
verbal, written, or visual.
3) Channel: The medium through which the message is transmitted, such as face-to-face
conversations, phone calls, emails, or social media.
4) Receiver: The person or group for whom the message is intended. The receiver decodes
and interprets the message.
5) Feedback: The response from the receiver, indicating whether the message was
understood correctly.
6) Context: The environment or situation in which communication takes place, influencing
how messages are interpreted.

Types of Communication

There are various types of technical writing, including:

Written Communication

Communication is written in words or symbols and is transmitted via e-mail, letter,


memo, etc. Many social media platforms based on Internet are available, where written
communication is posted. Meant for mass circulation, instead for an individual written
communication is most commonly used in business and its contents, vocabulary, style,
precision and clarity are very important achieving its objective.

It gives the recipient and sender more time to analyze the content and create an
appropriate response.It also allows a closer look at the problem, gain the necessary knowledge,
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Sabir Hussain (HOD-English IGC-Grw) Technical Writing & Presentation Skills

and thus minimizes the risk of incorrect assessments or classification. However, it is not as
effective as the oral form. Both in terms of conveying emotions, and the formality is also an
obstacle for many people.In written communications, we also cannot count on an immediate
response, which can significantly hinder communication and solving various types of problems.

Verbal Communication

Communication is done through spoken words. The spoken part usually involves face-
to-face talk, telephonic talk, video-chat, television, radio or chat over internet, such as Skype or
WhatsApp.Personal traits such as clarity of pronunciation, pitch, slang, volume, speed, etc.
influence oral mode of conversation.

Verbal communication is defined as communication to express our views, information,


and ideas in the form of sound and words. The series of words and grammar rules define the
language. Two or more persons can quickly communicate if they are aware of their languages.
It might be difficult for people to communicate without a common known language. For
effective communication, there must be a common language, which everyone present can
understand.Effective verbal communication encompasses good relations at the workspace and
home.

Differences and Similarities between Verbal and Written Communication

Differences;

 Medium: Written communication uses text, while verbal communication relies on spoken
words.
 Permanence: Written communication is permanent; verbal is often temporary.
 Tone: Verbal conveys tone and emotion; written may lack emotional cues.
 Feedback: Verbal allows immediate feedback; written may delay response.
 Accessibility: Written can be reviewed anytime; verbal is fleeting.
 Formality: Written is often more formal; verbal can be casual.
 Complexity: Written suits complex ideas; verbal is better for simple exchanges.
 Audience: Written can reach a wider audience; verbal is typically direct.
 Preparation: Written requires more preparation; verbal can be spontaneous.

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Sabir Hussain (HOD-English IGC-Grw) Technical Writing & Presentation Skills

Similarities;

 Purpose: Both aim to convey information, ideas, and emotions between individuals or
groups.
 Structure: Both utilize structure, including grammar and organization, to enhance
comprehension.
 Feedback: Both can involve feedback, where the receiver responds to the message,
facilitating understanding.
 Audience Awareness: Both require consideration of the audience to tailor the message
appropriately.
 Cultural Context: Both are influenced by cultural norms and practices, affecting how
messages are interpreted.

Communication Barriers

Communication barriers include language differences, cultural misunderstandings,


emotional biases, and physical distractions. Other factors like noise, lack of clarity, or
preconceived notions can hinder effective exchanges. These barriers can lead to
misinterpretations and conflicts, making it essential to identify and address them for successful
communication.

Conclusion

In conclusion, communication plays a vital role in human interaction, encompassing


various elements, purposes, barriers, and forms. Understanding the differences and similarities
between written and verbal communication helps enhance effectiveness in conveying messages.
By recognizing and addressing barriers, individuals can improve their communication skills,
fostering better relationships and achieving desired outcomes in both personal and professional
contexts.

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