Communication can be broadly divided into two categories. 

These are:

(i) Verbal communication: When words are used as tools of interaction between two or more individuals, it is termed as verbal communication. It can be oral or written. Verbal communication provides us with meaningful interaction between people, information and direction. It is a fundamental requirement for life. Researchers have noted that on an average a person spends 10 to 11 hours every day in verbal

communication that is, reading, speaking, writing, or listening. Some common forms of verbal communication are conversations, speeches, letters, newspapers, magazines,

telephonic conversations, etc.

(ii) Non-verbal communication: It is interesting to note that non-verbal communication or body language accounts for more than 70 percent of our communication while words account for just about 10 percent ! Thus non-verbal Communication is very important in human interaction. Gestures, eye contact, facial expressions, posture and body orientation, distance are some of the non-verbal ways of communicating. Non-verbal communication helps to

• Create impressions beyond the verbal element of communication,

• Reinforces what has been said,

• Helps to express our emotions and interpersonal attitudes,

• Helps to convey power, affection, dominance, respect etc,

• Manage and regulate the interaction with others, and

• Allows self-presentation.

There are various channels of non-verbal communication. However it is important to note that non-verbal communication is influenced by culture; hence it must be understood with reference to the culture.