Verbal Communication

• Is the sharing of ideas, thoughts and feelings using speech and sounds
• In verbal communication words are used to exchange information

Advantages

• There is immediate feedback
• There is direct impact
• Allows for the use of plain and easily understood language
• Allows the sender to check for assimilation (i.e. the message has been understood and is being carried out)
• Allows the sender to gain the commitment of the audience
• Can be used to explain and clarify other forms of communication e.g. visual
• Allows for intimacy between the sender and the receiver
• It is convenient for example most people can speak and listen without the need of special equipment

Disadvantages

• Depends on the skills of the presenter (sender)
• Uses only one of the audience’s senses
• Sometimes it is not possible to gauge the recipient’s understanding
• Time consuming and usually works only with small groups
• There can be conflicts between spoken and non-verbal communication

To access more topics go to the O Level Business Notes page