Communication

Communication is the ultimate way to learn, work with others, as well to provide and receive respect. It is the base for all processes within business. There are many ways to improve your communication. I will provide tips below.

Verbal Communication

Oral Communication

Being aware of voulme, tone, and speed of talking is important to oral communication. As well as not using slang or jargon while speaking.

Written Communication

Spelling and Grammar is huge when delevring written communication. Being clear and consice to not make a message too lengthy.

Sign Language

Because Verbal communication is based off off words sing language counts as verbal as well although the words are interpreted through physical gestures.

Relies on words that are conversed between at least two people.

Non Verbal Communication

Posture

This refers to how you stand or sit up straight. Face th eperson who is speaking. Body posture differs between wether it looks like you are interested and paying attention or not. (Masterclass, Verbal vs. nonverbal communication explained - 2026 2021)

Kinesics

This is your body movements throughout a conversation.

(Masterclass, Verbal vs. nonverbal communication explained - 2026 2021)

Proxemics

This involves spacial awareness and how close you are to another person. Standing too close may feel awkward and too forward. Where standing too far away can make you seem closed off and uninterested in the conversation. (Masterclass, Verbal vs. nonverbal communication explained - 2026 2021)

Haptics

Physical contact. This can interpret a meaningful conversation especially when empathy is at play and you want to show your concern and care. (Masterclass, Verbal vs. nonverbal communication explained - 2026 2021)

Physical cues that can complement verbal cues or show differing emotional states.

Paralanguage

Volume, pitch, rate / speed, rythym, and quality of speech are all areas included in paralanguage. It can add expression or empthasism when there isn't time for body language. (What is paralanguage communication? (nonverbal) 2024)

Tips to Communication

Actively listen

This involves limiting any distractions, making sure you are listening to understand not only to respond.

Make your responses meaningful

Replying to add to the conversation not to voice your opinion or cut to the chase, and sometimes just being quiet in order to let the other person fully be heard.

Non - verbal communication

This includes smiling, nodding, positive posture ( sitting/ standing upright ), physical gestures that show you are either listening, agree or disagree. Non - verbal cues can be more important than verbal in some cases.

Be percise

This doen't mean to be too short with people. This means to get your point across with the right amount of detail. Don't use any jargon that isn't nessarcy.

(Lucas, Customer service: Skills for success 2023)

Communication Styles

There are four types of common communication styles that can be used to determine how a person communicates and how to best communicate back to them. Understanding these styles can help you consider the context and purpose of different conversations with different people.

Passive

This style involves a low amount of communication which can lead to confusion.

Passive - Agressive

Negative emotions come through conversation and causes confusion about the emotions being felt, often is perceived as resentment.

Agressive

Often derives from anger and creates a hostile environment.

Assertive

A very direct way of communication with confident mannerisms. Creates a honest environment.

(Meg Palmer, What is networking in business? (with tips and importance) | indeed.com 2025)

Behavioural Styles

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Tips for communication with different behaviour styles :

Tips when communicating with someone who has an expressive behaviour style:

- Respond enthusiastically.

- Open and positive body language.

- Use caution when returning physical touch.

- Ask pertinent questions.

- When writing, use a reader- focused style.

- Ask specific open-ended questions.

- Mirror excitement.

Tips when communicating with people who have an inquisitive behaviour style:

-Restrained body cues.

-Little to no physical contact.

-Soft tone and volume.

-Brief and correct statements.

-Use background information and data.

-Use title and last name.

-Avoid small talk

(Lucas, Customer service: Skills for success 2023)

Tips when communicating with people who have a rational behaviour style:

- Firm handshakes.

- Avoid aggressive behaviours.

- Intermittent eye contact.

- Mirror their style.

- Slower rate of speech.

- Ask open-ended questions.

- Structured approach in communication.

Tips when communicating with people who have a decisive behaviour style:

- Minimize small talk and details.

- Respond in a similar fashion while remaining professional.

- Use facts and logic, avoiding unnecessary details.

- Listen and don't defend.

- Match speaking rate.

- Keep communication brief.

Decisive

More forceful and assertive approach. Display a confident and arrogant demnour sometimes. Tend to talk more than listen. Prefer strong eye contact and firm handshakes.

Inqusitive

Prefer to interact with writing rather than oral communication. Less non verbal cues and further proxemics. More introverted personality.

Expressive

Extroverted personalities with enthusiastic and positive mannerisms. Use open body language and close proxemics.

Rational

More introverted, patient and avoid conflict. Show more eye contact and facial expressions. More communicatino is done through writing.

References

Lucas, R. W. (2023). Customer service: Skills for success. McGraw Hill Education.

Palmer Nov 7, M. (2023, November 3). Types of communication styles and how to identify them. Southern New Hampshire University. https://www.snhu.edu/about-us/newsroom/liberal-arts/types-of-communication-styles

Verbal vs. nonverbal communication explained - 2026. MasterClass. (2021, December 21). https://www.masterclass.com/articles/verbal-vs-nonverbal-communication

What is paralanguage communication? (nonverbal). Body Language Matters. (2024, April 17). https://bodylanguagematters.com/what-is-paralanguage-communication/