Oral Communication
- Oct 27, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: May 5, 2024
What is oral communication?
Oral communication is the exchange of information and ideas through spoken word. It can be directly in person in a face-to-face interaction or through an electronic device such as a phone, video platform or radio. The most effective way for businesses to transmit information verbally is through oral communication, such as a staff meeting, webinar and workshop.
The importance of oral communication
When starting a business and creating a website, it’s important to have strong written copy, text and images that “speak” for one’s brand. Anything beyond the written or visual format falls under oral communication. Entrepreneurs, individuals and business owners must have sharp, concise and clear verbal communication skills to best connect with stakeholders and build lasting relationships.
Furthermore, oral communication is vital for learning and understanding those in your environment on a daily basis, both personally and professionally. It is a fundamental aspect of learning a language and helps solve problems. It also allows people to quickly exchange information and it conveys emotion in conversations.
The 5 elements of oral communication
Sender: The sender is the person who initiates communication to the receiver.
Medium: The medium is the format in which the message is being sent. For example, a voicemail, a face-to-face conversation or a PowerPoint presentation.
Channel: The channel is the platform on which the message is delivered. For example, a podcast, a telephone or a meeting.
Receiver: The receiver listens and decodes the message sent by the sender. The receiver then generates feedback for the sender in response to the message.
Feedback: This final stage is the reaction of the receiver, such as oral or written communication. No response from the receiver is also a type of feedback. This completes the entire oral communication cycle.
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Types of oral communication
One-on-one conversations: Conversation between two friends, employees or with one’s manager. This could be personal, professional or just sharing motivational quotes between each other.
Meetings: Decision-making meetings and information-sharing meetings, often applicable to business meetings.
Group discussions: Book club gathering, small group project.
Speeches: Political debate, motivational speech.
Presentations: Teaching students in a classroom, instructional presentation or elevator pitch.
Electronic: Talking over the phone, listening to a show on the radio.
Advantages of oral communication
Less chance of any misunderstanding
Allows for easy, clear vernacular
Face to face communications promotes better understanding, patience and productivity.
Promotes discussion and encourages streamlined banter