Communication

Communication Defined

It's nearly impossible to go through a day without the use of communication. Communication is sending and receiving information between two or more people. The person sending the message is referred to as the sender, while the person receiving the information is called the receiver. The information conveyed can include facts, ideas, concepts, opinions, beliefs, attitudes, instructions and even emotions. 

Types of Communication

Methods of communication vary, and you are almost certainly familiar with all of them. Let's take a look at some of the primary methods. 

• Verbal communication is simply sending a message through a spoken language that is understood by both the sender and receiver of the message. Examples of verbal communications include face-to-face talking, listening to a lecture or seminar, and listening to a television program. In fact, if you are listening to this lesson, you are engaged in a verbal form of communication. 
• Written communication is sending a message by the use of symbols that are understood by both the sender and receiver of the message. If you are reading the transcript of this lesson, you are engaged in written communication. 
• Body language is a form of nonverbal communication that can be used to send a message. You can often tell if your boss is pleased or upset simply by looking at his facial expressions, posture and gestures. For example, a flushed face may mean embarrassment; a clinched fist may indicate anger; and the rolling of one's eyes may signal disbelief or annoyance.