Oral and Written Communication

Oral and Written Communication

            Oral communication, alternatively known as verbal communication, implies communication that makes use of spoken words, including people conversing with each other, whether it be telephonic conversations or direct conversations. Discussions, presentations, meetings, interviews, conferences, lectures, and speeches are all forms of oral communication. Generally, oral communication is recommended when direct interaction is needed (Juneja, 2020). Written communication, on the other hand, involves messages that use written words. In internal business, some forms of communication include emails, memos, job descriptions, reports, instant messages, employee manuals, and bulletins. Other forms of written communication used among businesses or with clients include proposals, letters, internet websites, contracts, advertisements, brochures, telegrams, postcards, and news releases.

Although written and oral communication vary significantly: they are both effective. Oral communication is most effective when instant communication and immediate feedback is required (Prabavathi & Nagasubramani, 2018). Secondly, oral communication is most effective when the individuals conversing want to keep the subject of their conversation a secret. Written communication can leak secrecy since messages are passed from hand to hand (Prabavathi & Nagasubramani, 2018). Third, oral communication is ideal when individuals want to arrive at a consensus. At times, open discussion is needed to reach a mutual understanding. Such discussions are facilitated by oral communication. Fourth, in organizations, oral communication is most effective, especially when any direction of procedures or policies need to be explained to employees.

Written communication is most effective when individuals want to convey complex information. When a receiver receives a complex written document, he or she can read it over and over again until the message is clear (Prabavathi & Nagasubramani, 2018). Secondly, written communication is most effective when a permanent record of the document is needed for reference in the future. Third, written communication is most efficient when information needs to be sent to many individuals who are geographically dispersed (Prabavathi & Nagasubramani, 2018).  The sender can share the same document repeatedly and reach a wider audience without having to re-draft documents. Fourth, written communication is most effective when the sender is not in need of immediate feedback from the audience, or immediate interaction is undesirable or unimportant.

Oral communication is most effective when individuals want to maintain secrets, establish a direct relationship, reach a mutual understanding, and get instant feedback. Written communication is ideal when individuals want to convey complex information, keep a permanent record, reach a wider audience, and when instant feedback is not desirable.

References

Juneja, P. (2020). Oral Communication – Meaning, Advantages and Limitations. Management Study Guide – Courses for Students, Professionals & Faculty Members. https://www.managementstudyguide.com/oral-communication.htm

Prabavathi, R., & Nagasubramani, P. C. (2018). Effective oral and written communication. Journal of Applied and Advanced Research, 3(S1), 29-32.