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Methods of Communication

Author: Sophia

what's covered
This lesson talks about the best methods of communication to use for certain situations. Specifically, this lesson will cover:

Table of Contents

1. Methods of Communication

Communication can come in many hybrids, but for this tutorial, there are three communication methods for you to look at:

  • Virtual
  • Face-to-face
  • Written

1a. Virtual

Virtual meetings include things such as conference calls, GoToMeetings, Skype, Google Hangout, and any other virtual method that allows people to meet when they're not in the same geography. This type of communication is convenient, it's conducive to rapid brainstorming, and you can go back and forth with some ideas. There's a sense of in-person exchange where there's this possibility of collaboration.

However, there is a threat of technical interruption. The meeting is cut short if the internet is interrupted in some way. Generally, when something is tech-based, there may be a delay in communication. There may be an overlap when people are talking or an awkward pause because people are afraid to overlap. You also miss nonverbal communication, or body language. It is also possible to mute a speaker and have a different conversation while you're communicating something else.

think about it
When is the virtual method the best to use?

The virtual method is used best when geography is a challenge, when meetings repeat or you have repeating check-ins, when you're presenting information, or when you're needing a group discussion and you need some rapid-fire brainstorming.

1b. Face-To-Face

Unlike the virtual method, face-to-face interaction does have the benefit of non-verbal communication. You can see if someone's uncomfortable with some information. There's clear audio and easy visuals.

The con, of course, is geography. You're limited to the people in your office, city, or area.

think about it
When is the face-to-face method the best to use?

This method is best used when collaborating, designing, discussing sensitive or personal topics, or sharing complex information, particularly if participant location isn't an issue.

1c. Written

Written communication is nice because you have documentation; you can see a history of exchange. It allows people to process the information on their own time, and you can include attachments, links, and any other information. You have decreased interruption because you can digest that written communication when it's best for you. You have the time to be cohesive and organized.

One con is that the collaboration speed is decreased while you wait for the response. There's also an increased risk of misunderstanding and misinterpretations of tone.

think about it
When is the written method the best to use?

The written method is used best when recapping processes or plans, when you need clarification, or when the communication is simple and straightforward.

big idea
Communication Method Pros Cons Use Method when...
Virtual Convenient
Rapid brainstorm
Sense of in-person exchange
Share screen/whiteboard
Technical interruptions
Unseen body language
Overlap or awkward pauses
Geography is a challenge
Meetings repeat/check-ins
Presenting information
Needing group discussion
Face-to-face Body language
Clear audio
Easy visuals
Geography/location Collaborating
Designing
Discussing sensitive topics
Sharing complex information
Written Documentation
Processing time
Attachements
Decreased interruption
Cohesive/organized
Collaboration speed decreased
Increased misunderstanding
Misinterpretation of tone
Recapping process or plan
Needing clarification
Simple and straightforward

summary
In this lesson, you learned about three methods of communication: virtual, face-to-face, and written communications. Each method has its pros and cons, along with certain situations of when you should each method.

Source: This work is adapted from Sophia author Kelly Nordstrom