Unit I Title: World Englishes and Global Communication

Lesson 6: Types of Communication Strategies

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TYPES OF COMMUNICATION

BASED ON COMMUNICATION CHANNELS BASED ON STYLE AND PURPOSE

NON - VERBAL WRITTEN FORMAL INFORMAL

TYPE TYPE

VISUAL
FACE TO FACE TYPE

VERBAL (ORAL)
DISTANCE TYPE

MASS

Types of Communication Strategies

A. FORMAL TYPE
This type of communication is also referred to as “official communication” and covers the
gamut (range or series) of verbal expressions that address a formal need.
1. For instance, a large number of interactions one makes within one’s profession and
legal expressions are examples of formal communication.
2. It is more time-consuming and follows a particular communication protocol.
3. Written forms such as Minutes of the Meeting or recorded transcription are provided
based on the oral conversation.
4. Formal type could also be considered a reliable source of information.
Examples: meeting, seminar, class discussion

B. INFORMAL TYPE
Informal or unofficial type of communication is popular. This is often by word-of-mouth
information. This type of communication opens one up to unofficial yet provocative
information.
1. Spontaneous and free flowing type of communication and is not restricted by any
formal structure and standards.
2. This type of communication is also less reliable or accurate.
3. There are no formal rules and no documentation evidence.
4. Maybe considered just a “hearsay.”
Example: Daily conversation with family, friends and other people

C. ORAL FACE TO FACE TYPE

This is the most common type of communication. Direct sending of message through face
to face can be formal (meeting, seminar) or informal (with family and friends).
1. This type of communication get better with practice.
2. This oral form is considered the most powerful type of communication.
3. It does not offer one opportunity to tune, revise, revoke and fix what was already
expressed.
4. For superior face to face communication, the speaker should always meet the eyes of
his audience and vice versa.

D. ORAL DISTANCE TYPE

Distance communication has made the world a smaller and more accessible place. The
use of mobile phones, VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol), 2-way webinars, etc. are all
modern expansions of distance communication.
1. The speaker’s tone of voice and pace of delivery take priority over other expressions.
2. Fast internet connection is important in oral distance type.
3. Both the speaker and listener should know when to speak and just listen to ensure an
effective communication.