Communication is the process of sharing thoughts, describing feelings, and learning new things through interaction with others. In the 21st-century workplace, it is a vital employability skill used to exchange ideas, make decisions, and build professional relationships.
Types of Communication
According to the sources, communication is categorised into four primary types:
- Verbal Communication: The use of words to share information, which includes both speaking (face-to-face, phone calls, video meetings) and writing (letters, emails, text messages).
- Non-Verbal Communication: Sharing messages without words through facial expressions, body language, posture, eye contact, touch, and spatial distance.
- Visual Communication: Using images, pictures, posters, and videos to convey a message.
- Written Communication: A sub-type of verbal communication involving documents like letters, emails, and professional posts.
Characteristics of Effective Communication
For communication to be successful, the message must be fully understood by the receiver. This is achieved by following the 6Cs of communication:
- Clear: Use simple words and have a clear idea of the message.
- Correct: Ensure information is free of grammatical, spelling, and factual errors.
- Complete: Include all relevant details so the listener understands the context.
- Concise: Keep the message brief and to the point.
- Considerate: Be mindful of the other person's background and opinions.
- Courteous: Maintain a kind and polite tone, using words like "please" and "thank you".
Listening is equally important; it involves focusing on the speaker to understand instructions and contribute meaningfully to the conversation.
Workplace Communication and Interpersonal Skills
In a professional setting, communication often happens through formal channels such as email and workplace chat apps (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams). Professionals must avoid barriers like language differences and unfamiliar industry jargon. Key interpersonal skills include:
- Teamwork: Different people working together on a shared goal to achieve synergy, where the team's output is better than individual efforts.
- Conflict Resolution: Managing disagreements by staying calm, listening to all sides, and focusing on the situation rather than the person.
- Handling Criticism: Distinguishing between constructive criticism (which helps you improve) and unfair criticism (which is negative and unhelpful).
Practical Tools for Professionals
- Resume Writing: A document describing your education, experience, and skills to show employers why you are the right fit for a job.
- Self-Introduction: Preparing a 5–6 sentence introduction that covers your name, what you do, your interests, and your strengths helps build a strong first impression.
- Non-Verbal Professionalism: In formal settings, maintain a spatial distance of at least 4 feet, keep eye contact to show confidence, and follow a formal dress code.