Communication is a demonstration of connecting with individuals and sharing information with them. Either you speak or not, it conveys the message to the other individual. There are three main kinds of communication that are verbal, non-verbal and visual communication. Verbal communication is a kind of communication in which you utilize words to trade the information with other individuals. Be that as it may, non-verbal communication does not utilize words for imparting anything other than rather some different modes is utilized. Visual communication refers to sharing of ideas and thoughts in forms that can be seen. So getting to the matter, here we will discuss the differences between verbal and nonverbal communication.

Verbal Communication

Verbal communication alludes to the utilization of sounds and dialect. It behaves as a medium for expressing thoughts, desires and ideas. It is indispensable to the procedures of learning and instructing. Verbal communication goes about as the essential means for expressing something between two or more individuals. Public speaking and interpersonal communication are the two essential form of verbal communication. Verbal communication has numerous reasons, yet its fundamental purpose is to communicate a message with other person. Verbal communication can be utilized to illuminate, ask, contend and discuss different topics.

Non-verbal Communication

Non-verbal communication is communication between individuals through accepting and sending silent prompts. It incorporates the utilization of signals, for example, kinesics (body language), proxemics (distance), chronemics (the utilization of time) and oculesics (eye contact). There are non-verbal components known as para-language, incorporating voice quality, pitch, rate, style and volume. Non-verbal communication includes the procedures of decoding and encoding. Encoding is the demonstration of creating the information, for example, gestures, postures and facial expressions. Decoding is the elucidation of information from accepted sensations from past experiences.

Visual Communication

Visual communication is the sharing of ideas and information in forms that can be seen. It relies on ‘oculesics’ i.e. eye-sight. In its broad spectrum it includes: signs, typography, drawing, graphic design, illustration, industrial design, colour, animation, advertising, electronic resources, etc.

Verbal Communication vs. Non-Verbal Communication vs. Visual Communication

There are some contrasts between these forms of communication that are explained below:

Definition

Verbal communication is a communication in which the correspondent uses language to convey the message to the recipient.

Non-verbal communication is a communication between recipient and sender with the utilization of signs.

Visual communication is the communication in which exchange of information takes place through visual signs.

Forms

There are two forms of verbal communication which include formal communication and informal communication.

There are many forms of non-verbal communication that includes Kinesics, Proxemics, Chronemics, Oculesics, Artifacts, Vocalics and Haptics.

Proof

There is a proof in form of document in verbal communication when written or formal communication is there.

There is no proof in form of any document in case of non-verbal communication.

Visual aids like slide shows, advertisements, presentations are proof of visual communication.

Translating

In verbal communication, it rarely happens that the message is transmitted with a wrong meaning.

In non-verbal communication, it happens many times that messages are transmitted with a wrong meaning and this leads to confusion.

In visual communication, messages are clear and to the point. There are negligible chances of miss-interpretation.

Time

Verbal communication is not a time consuming communication because it is easy to translate other’s message.

Non-verbal communication is a time consuming communication as it is difficult to translate other’s message and sometimes it may cause misunderstanding.

Visual communication is the least time consuming way to communicate as there is no need of any sound. Only a glimpse over the message gives complete picture of the information.

Benefit

In verbal communication, the message can be easily comprehended and instantaneous feedback is possible.

In non-verbal communication, we can easily comprehend feelings, status, emotions and way of life of sender.

Visual communication helps the audience to understand informative and persuasive speeches with the help of presentations. It is highly used and recommended in teaching-learning process.

Personal presence

In verbal communication, personal presence is not compulsory as the message can be delivered through telephone calls, letters and so forth. So, presence of an individual doesn’t make any special change.

In non-verbal communication, personal presence of all parties is compulsory otherwise the message can’t be properly delivered and transmitted.

Personal presence of the sender is not mandatory; but the receiver must see the message in person to understand thoughts of the sender.

Disadvantages

Verbal communication has one disadvantage i.e. the cultural differences between sender and receiver. This cultural difference leads to difference in languages and becomes a hindrance in decoding the message.

Non-verbal communication can be vague and imprecise at times. It is continuous i.e. even when a sender doesn’t want to communicate anything, his actions communicate.

Visual communication is best when used alongside verbal or non-verbal communication. Visual aids used for visual communication are not notes. They are used to enhance communication only.

Conclusion

From the above article we come to know that the verbal communication uses words or languages to convey the message, either in formal way or in informal way while non-verbal communication uses signals to convey the message in many forms. There is no documentary evidence in case of non-verbal communication and it is also time consuming while in verbal communication, there is documentary evidence and it is less time consuming. There is no need of personal presence in verbal communication while it is needed in other. Verbal communication is helpful to comprehend the message while other is helpful to understand the feelings and emotions. Visual communication includes the transmission of information and ideas using symbols and imagery. It is one of the three main types of communication. It is the communication that people rely upon the most. It uses signs, graphic designs, films, typography, drawing, illustration, colours, industrial design, advertising, visual aids etc.Which is more effective and useful type of communication in your opinion?