Speak Out, Fly High

Introduction

The exchange of words between people to express views and opinions is ideally termed to be verbal communication. This type of communication is widely described in various facets, namely spoken and written communication. The verbal element comes in countenance with the way of choosing the words, hearing the speech, and interpreting it. Another label given to verbal communication is spoken communication. There is a certain principle canon followed in verbal communication, going by the way of explanation, first, we talk about the syntactic rules, give a heads up on the order of the words in a  sentence, wherein semantic rules give a heads up to the meaning and interpretation of the words and last in the list are contextual rules, giving a heads up on the choice of words in terms of contextual and social concerns.

Verbal communication skills

“The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak”, (Hans Hoffman). One cannot completely subside non-verbal communication with effective verbal communication skills, as it is very important to communicate through tone of voice, body language, facial expressions etcetera. In addition, articulate speech, calm and polite behavior, and basic etiquettes hold countenance in smooth verbal communication.

Talking about opening communication, the choice of words between the people to communicate in the first few minutes leaves an impression on the sender of the message and the receiver of the message. One should deliver and receive information consciously to make a significant impact on the future prospect. However, smart communication is done when a person is able to speak a lot in a few words.

Effective speaking and listening are basic verbal communication skills wherein effective speaking incorporates three basic facets, choice of words, way of speaking, and the amalgamation of words used with non-verbal communication. Furthermore, active listening plays a vital role in verbal communication skills. To make sure that you listen more effectively, one must be welcoming to new ideas and thoughts, interpret the message of the speaker in the right way, not get distracted while having a conversation, be prepared to listen patiently, and not be biased in comprehending the message of the speaker. Also, Verbal communication can be improved in a cycle of four steps, mainly reinforcement, reflection, clarification, and questioning.

Elements of verbal communication skills

Laying a mild focus on the elements of verbal communication skills can help us communicate effectively. Starting from the tone of the voice, it makes a huge difference in delivering and receiving the messages. Sometimes, this element is mood-dependent and situation-specific. A harsh voice tone reflects a bad mood while a sweet voice tone reflects a cheerful mood of the particular person. “Communication - The Human Connection, is the key to personal and career success.” ( Paul.J. Meyer). Speed of the voice is another element, configured ineffective communication. Speaking fastly indicates an emotion of excitement or anger. Whereas regular speaking speed gives a feeling of reliable and comfortable conversation.

Imbibing different language skills can help in effective verbal communication. The presence of 6000 to 7000 languages in the world helps various intellectual minds to let their voice reach the receiver as and when required. “The art of communication is the language of leadership.”  (James Humes). Also, the use of strong vocabulary words in a group or in an individual conversation helps you stand out more confidently. With the incorporation of good vocabulary words, the sender of the message leaves a significant impact on the mind of the receiver. Last but not the least, grammar plays a vital role in a way that it helps an individual to form the sentence in a well-mannered structure and deliver it in the same way. Connecting phrases instantly is not everyone’s cup of tea. However, it requires huge effort to lay an impact on the receiver to have fruitful and effective communication between the sender and the receiver.

Types of verbal communication

“The essence of communication is the intention”. (Werner Erhard). Verbal communication can be classified into various categories mainly, Intrapersonal communication, Interpersonal communication, Small group communication and public communication. “Effective communication is 20% what you know, 80% how you feel about what you know.” (Jim Rohn). Having a comprehensive understanding, we shall first talk about Intrapersonal communication, silent communications that undergo among our own selves, to be precise, a dramatic monologue is what we call intrapersonal communication. Having a brief insight, this type of communication can either take the form of verbal interaction or may stay confined till our own thoughts. Interpersonal communication is referred to as one-to-one communication between two individuals. Usually in this process, the sender and the receiver exchange roles among each other to have effective communication.

Furthermore, talking about small group communication, it is said to take place when more than two individuals are involved in the conversation. The level of interaction depends upon the number of people participating in the conversation. There are high chances that people come across miscommunication as a single issue or a query that is difficult to get addressed in such a group. Board meetings, Team meetings, or Press conferences are few examples of this kind of communication. Addressing an audience with a large number of people, is termed to be a public communication. In this type of communication, the deliverance of a message is from a single person to a large audience.

Conclusion 

Expression through words, language, and speech is the best way to have effective verbal communication. Usually, verbal communication skills make you prompt towards situations and organized as per the needs. There shall be a clear and concise exchange of messages between the sender and the receiver in order to give rise to effective communication.

Sometimes sign language and written communication falls under the aspect of verbal communication. However, “The most important thing in communication is to hear what isn't being said.” (Peter Drucker).

 Reference Links

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