TOPIC 8: ORAL PRESENTATION

Oral Communication
 Methods of Communication

• On the basis of methods of expression used,

communication can be classified into three
categories, namely; oral, written, and non-
verbal communication.
 Oral/Verbal Communication

• It means exchange of information, ideas and opinions

with the help of spoken words. An oral communication
can be formal or informal. It includes face-to-face
conversations, speech, telephonic conversation, video,
radio, television, voice over internet etc. In oral
communication, communication is influenced by pitch,
volume, speed and clarity of speaking. A manager would
use oral communication for a variety of things such as,
meetings, presentations, interviews, group discussions,
trainings, speeches, performance reviews, etc.
 Oral/Verbal Communication
• Oral communication is generally
recommended when the communication
matter is of temporary kind or where a direct
interaction is required. Face to face
communication (meetings, lectures,
conferences, interviews, etc.) is significant so
as to build a rapport and trust.
 Oral/Verbal Communication
• The term ‘verbal’ is colloquially used to mean oral
but in communication studies, ‘verbal’ means by
using words and language. Verbal communication is
the form of communication in which message is
transmitted verbally. It is usually done by word of
mouth. Most of our communication is done by using
language; we speak whenever we have to convey
information and ideas, to discuss, to motivate, to
appreciate, or to warn, reprimand, complain, and so
on. We may do any of these things orally.
 Oral/Verbal Communication
• Face to face conversation is the most natural way of
transmitting the message. Oral orders, face to face
interviews, lectures, group discussions, social
gatherings, etc, are frequently used in our daily life.
These have the merit of achieving greater
cooperation and understanding because the
communicator can convey the message both by
words and expressions or gestures. Moreover, the
listener can make queries if he has any doubt or if
he is not able to understand the message.
 Oral/Verbal Communication
• Mechanical devices are gaining great
popularity for communicating the messages in
the modern business enterprises. The
important devices used include signals,
telephone, intercom system, electric paging
system and Dictaphone.
 Oral/Verbal Communication
• Every executive makes use of oral communication
by instructing, lecturing, counseling and so on.
Oral communication is also used for attending to
the suggestions and grievances of the workers.
The greatest benefit of oral communication is that
it saves time as it provides an immediate response
and feedback. It fosters a friendly and cooperative
spirit. It permits personalized contacts and
develops a sense of belongingness.
 Oral/Verbal Communication
• Nonetheless, oral communication is not free
from drawbacks. It may be time consuming
because for having direct talks, the individuals
concerned have to move back and forth to
and from their work places. It may not be
specific and so may be misunderstood. It may
also create legal difficulties if no written
record of conversation is preserved.
 Advantages of Oral Communication

• There is high level of understanding and transparency in oral communication as it is

interpersonal.
• There is no element of rigidity in oral communication. There is flexibility for allowing
changes in the decisions previously taken.
• The feedback is spontaneous in case of oral communication. Thus, decisions can be
made quickly without any delay.
• Oral communication is not only time saving, but it also saves upon money and
efforts.
• Oral communication is best in case of problem resolution. The conflicts, disputes and
many issues/differences can be put to an end by talking them over.
• Oral communication is an essential for teamwork and group energy.
• Oral communication promotes a receptive and encouraging morale among
organizational employees.
• Oral communication can be best used to transfer private and confidential
information/matter.
 Disadvantages/Limitations of Oral Communication

• Relying only on oral communication may not be sufficient as business

communication is formal and very organized.
• Oral communication is less authentic than written communication as they are
informal and not as organized as written communication.
• Oral communication is time-saving as far as daily interactions are concerned,
but in case of meetings, long speeches consume lot of time and are
unproductive at times.
• Oral communications are not easy to maintain and thus they are unsteady.
• There may be misunderstandings as the information is not complete and may
lack essentials.
• It requires attentiveness and great receptivity on part of the
receivers/audience.
• Oral communication (such as speeches) is not frequently used as legal records
except in investigation work.
 Effective Oral Communication

• Effective communication is communication that

is clearly and successfully delivered, received
and understood. Effective communication takes
place only when the listener clearly understands
the message that the speaker intended to send.
In other words a speaker transmits a message
and must ensure that the message is delivered
clearly. A listener takes delivery of the message
and must be an active listener.
 Effective Oral Communication

• Communication is effective only when both

the sender and the receiver are focused on
the act of communication. While the sender
must sharpen and improve skills of speaking
and writing, the receiver must improve skills
of listening and reading.
 Standards of Effective Communication

• Complete: communicate all relevant information

• Clear: convey information that is plainly
understood
• Brief: communicate the information in a concise
manner
• Timely: offer and request information in an
appropriate timeframe, verify authenticity, and
validate or acknowledge information.