What are the four forms of interpersonal interaction and communication?

Cis Kimhill
2 min readAug 21, 2023

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The Human Element

What is interpersonal communication?

It’s important to understand what interpersonal means before we can define interpersonal communication and improve communication.

Why is interpersonal communication important? Effective interpersonal communication is a foundation upon which business relationships (and others) are built. Communication is the catalyst of action. If done correctly, communication can transform ideas into actions.

Although one’s personal definition of interpersonal communication may be slightly different from that of others, its basic principles will probably remain the same. Your ability to master four fundamental interpersonal communication concepts will determine your interpersonal communication abilities.

What are the four types of interpersonal communication and interpersonal skills?

The four main categories of communication are: verbal; listening; written; and nonverbal communications. We’ll examine these concepts of interpersonal communication in more detail.

1. The Verbal

Verbal communication is created when you speak or make an audible noise (such as “hmm” or “Ahh!”). Verbal communication includes auditory factors such as intonation, in addition to the content and context of what’s being said. It’s the way your voice changes in pitch as you speak. This can affect how words are interpreted.

Imagine saying “Have an enjoyable day” in different ways. It could be said in a friendly manner, sarcastically or even ominously.

2. Listening

You’ve probably been accused at least once in your life of “hearing, but not listening.” It may have been difficult to distinguish between the two concepts at first, but the message was clear: listening is deliberate and focused.

Working ears is what makes hearing automatic. Listening requires more effort. Listening requires more effort.

3. Written Communication

Written communication is when you use symbols to convey a message. Written communication in business is the foundation of information sharing. It can range from emails, text messages and formal reports to memoranda or memos.

Written communication is usually used to share information that’s complex or long. Written communication is therefore often deemed more valid legally than spoken words. It is often used as a “official” form of communication. Emojis can be used in written communication to convey emotional information or context that is difficult to convey through words alone.

4. Non-Verbal Communications

Nonverbal communication is about conveying meaning without words, whether written or spoken. Nonverbal communication can take many forms, from facial expressions to gestures (like jazz hands). This can be achieved through everything from facial expressions to specific gestures (“jazz hands,” anyone?)

Consider that mimes can tell complete stories without saying a single word. Nonverbal communication is often used to complement spoken communication. The use of gestures like “air quotes” and shoulder shrugs can add new meanings, if not completely different ones to what is being said.

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Cis Kimhill
Cis Kimhill

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