TLDR:
This article breaks down six essential types of communication—verbal, non-verbal, written, listening, questioning, and image—and how each shapes the way we connect. It offers practical advice on understanding your communication style, asking better questions, and handling emotional or challenging conversations. With insights from tools like Everything DiSC® and up-to-date communication research, this guide helps you become a more effective communicator in every area of your work and life.
What is Communication, Really?
Communication is more than talking; it’s about creating shared understanding. It involves clearly expressing your thoughts, listening with intention, and adapting to the needs of others. Successful communication is built on strong interpersonal skills: the back-and-forth exchange that builds connection and trust. A 2025 report by Grammarly Business and Harris Poll found that companies lose an estimated $2 trillion annually due to poor communication, a 20% increase since 2023, so ensuring your team can clearly communicate is important to the success of your business.
The Six Core Types of Communication
- Verbal Communication: Speaking clearly, assertively, and respectfully is fundamental. Verbal communication is most effective when you:
- Use statements like “I think”, “I feel”, or “I believe” to ground your message
- Structure your point with a beginning, middle, and end
- Understand your own style and adapt to the style of others
- Non-Verbal Communication: According to Toastmasters International, over half of communication is non-verbal. Your body language, eye contact, facial expressions, and even posture all speak volumes. Use these non-verbal cues to support your message:
- Make eye contact and smile
- Nod in agreement to show you’re engaged
- Keep your hands relaxed and still
- Avoid fidgeting with pens, phones, or other distractions
- Listening: Listening is more than hearing. It’s about being present, showing empathy, and truly understanding what’s being said. Tips to practice active listening:
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- Summarize or paraphrase what you heard
- Use short acknowledgments like “I see” or “Tell me more”
- Ask open-ended clarifying questions
- Avoid planning your response while the other person is talking
Research from Queen’s University shows we’re more likely to tune out familiar voices. That makes it even more important to stay intentional in close relationships.
- Questioning: Questions open the door to better dialogue. The right questions can encourage reflection, deepen understanding, and strengthen relationships. Try these types of questions:
- Open-ended: “What do you think would help?” instead of “Is that okay?”
- Follow-up: “Can you give an example?”
- Multiple-choice: “Do you prefer a Monday or Wednesday meeting?”
Hint: Avoid defaulting to yes/no questions if you want richer, more thoughtful responses.
- Written Communication: From emails and reports to text messages and Slack updates, written communication is everywhere. It creates clarity, builds accountability, and reduces miscommunication if done well. Why it matters:
- Written messages are more likely to be remembered
- They provide a reference point others can revisit
- They limit misunderstandings when tone and context are carefully considered
Author Grant Cardone puts it this way: “People forget what you say, but they remember what they read.”
- Image Communication: Your image, from how you dress to how you carry yourself, is also communication. It sends signals about your personality, professionalism, and confidence. Tips for communicating well through image:
- Dress appropriately for the setting
- Maintain good grooming and posture
- Smile and use open, welcoming gestures
- Think of image as a mix of body language and appearance. Whether we intend it or not, we make a strong impression before we ever speak.
Final Thought: Why Communication Skills Matter
Want to improve how you connect, lead, and collaborate? Explore how Everything DiSC® can help you better understand yourself and others and build stronger communication at work.
Everything DiSC® is a research-backed tool that helps you understand your communication preferences and how to better relate to others. Whether you’re naturally detail-oriented or people-focused, DiSC helps you recognize your own style and adapt to others, improving collaboration and reducing tension.
Strong communication skills make you a better teammate, leader, and problem solver. Whether you’re navigating change, resolving conflict, or building culture, your ability to communicate well makes all the difference.
Want to improve how you connect, lead, and collaborate? Explore how Everything DiSC® can help you better understand yourself and others—and build stronger communication at work.
