Communication is essential to our daily existence. In fact, it is impossible to go through a single human interaction without communicating, whether the communication is direct, indirect, verbal or nonverbal. It is essential to understand the methods of human communication in our everyday roles as both messenger and receiver of communicated information.
Direct Verbal Communication
In the case of verbal communication, it is vital to understand that people have two instruments at their disposal: a mouth to speak and ears for listening. Communication will only be effective if both the messenger and the receiver can balance out speaking and listening. The messenger should adequately make a point or send information. The receiver should actually listen to the message being sent. Of course, information will be exchanged back and forth in a discussion, changing the roles of messenger and receiver. Each time, it is vital to balance speaking and listening in order for the communication to be effective.
Direct Nonverbal Communication
In the case of nonverbal communication, it is important to understand body language. A person sitting in a chair with his arms crossed over his chest is sitting in a very defensive position, signaling that he is not open to any suggestions. A person leaning forward during a conversation shows interest and is willing to take in advice or suggestions. While reading body language seems to be an art of its own, there are actually some basic tricks to mastering this skill. By videotaping a conversation and analyzing it with the people involved, it becomes clear what emotions are displayed by certain types of body language. The majority of people show the same nonverbal communications, so visual analysis is helpful in mastering the art of reading body language.
Indirect Communication
Indirect communication differs from verbal and nonverbal communication in the sense that the messenger and the receiver of the information are not in direct contact. Writing an e-mail or a letter, text messaging or instant messaging are all forms of indirect communication. Indirect communication leaves no room for the messenger to readjust the message or to elaborate on an explanation. Therefore, indirect communication should be carefully considered by the messenger, and should leave no room for misinterpretation by the receiver, otherwise miscommunication may occur, leading to an undesirable outcome. The golden rule for indirect communication is to keep the message direct and simple to avoid misunderstandings and to bring the point across.
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