How to Communicate Better: Mastering the 4 Types of Communication

There are many forms of communication. Communication can be deliberate, subconscious, or physical. Your words and your body language send signals that can aid the transfer of information, ideas, and feelings. When it comes to facilitating effective communication, it’s important to be aware of how the components of communication work together to convey intended meaning.

Communication is the exchange of information both verbally and via nonverbal cues. Often, how you say things has more of an influence on a listener than the words you use, and the subconscious ways you move your body can add a different meaning or intent to your conversations. While tone and body language can inhibit clear communication, they can also amplify your message. Strong communication skills can help you better express yourself.

There are four primary methods of communicating. These are:

1. 1. Verbal communication: Verbal communication is the use of spoken words. It is a form of interpersonal communication, which is communication between two or more people. Verbal communication skills are important to hone, as word choice can have powerful implications for the clarity of your message. G good communicator knows how to select their diction carefully and with purpose.
2. 2. Written communication: Written communication is a form of communication in which written words are used to share a message. When communicating via the written word you have less control over perceived tone and inflection. Thus, the ability to express feelings or ideas accurately in writing is an important skill to develop. Strong written communication skills means your message has less of a chance of being misinterpreted and more of a chance of connecting with its audience.
3. 3. Nonverbal communication: Nonverbal signals are just as important to communication as verbal ones. Nonverbal communication encompasses a whole host of physicalized nonverbal cues that convey emotional states and complement verbal messages. Nonverbal human communication involves many different parts of the body and can be either conscious or subconscious on the part of the communicator. There are many different types of nonverbal communication, like body language, facial expressions, tone of voice, and hand gestures. If used well, these nonverbal means of communication can enhance the authenticity of your words.
4. 4. Visual communication: Visuals—like traffic lights or infographics—can be helpful when trying to demonstrate a concept or share a message. Putting a specific picture in people’s minds rather than letting them imagine one themselves can be an effective way of conveying what you’re trying to say.

If you want to become a more effective communicator, there are a few things you can do to improve your communication process:

1. 1. Work on your interpersonal skills. Communication is a two-way street, and active listening means paying close attention to and retaining information from those you are listening to in order to optimize connection. Active listening is an important part of your interpersonal communication skill set, as effective communication skills encourage an open mind, honesty, and success. Ensure that you’re face-to-face with the person speaking to you, make comfortable eye contact, and ask relevant questions for clarity or to show interest. Empathize and positively reinforce the conversation. This helps make the speaker feel like their point of view is being heard, which builds trust and facilitates the flow of open communication. Interpersonal communication skills are also known as soft skills, social skills, or emotional intelligence.
2. 2. Know your audience. Be mindful of the words you use and who you say them to, as not everything will appeal to a mass audience. For example, in advertising, a young crowd may be thrown by outdated language, or an older crowd may not understand modern slang. The words you choose and who you direct them to can make all the difference when it comes to connecting with an audience.
3. 3. Be mindful of your body language. Important communication skills also involve what you don’t say. Nonverbal behavior like body movements, mannerisms, or physiological responses (blinking or fidgeting) can influence communication, altering the authenticity of your spoken words or causing them to take on a different meaning. Nonverbal messages can be more powerful than verbal communication, as human bodies can subconsciously deliver messages that they are verbally not conveying—“actions speak louder than words.”

Learn more about negotiation strategies and communication skills from Career FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss. Perfect tactical empathy, develop intentional body language, and get better results every day with the MasterClass Annual Membership.