Attributes of oral and written communication:

Attributes of oral and written communication:
Speed:
Written communication is slower in preparation, in conveyance and in reception; it takes more time to draft, type, dispatch, and to receive and read a latter than it takes to speak, and to hear, listen to and understand an oral message. Feedback is also slower in written communication.
Record:
Written communication can makes a record and can be used long time for the future reference. It is a documentary proof and can be used as legal evidence. We can tape the oral communication for the later reference, but the authenticity of the voice can be questioned; moreover, tapes can be edited and the message can spread out. Written records and documents are more reliable and acceptable.

Precision and Accuracy:
Written communication is more precise and accurate than oral communication. Accuracy is necessary in written communication because the receiver is not present to ask for clarification. Choice of precise words is possible in written communication because the writer has the time to look for suitable words and phrase, and to revise and change the draft, if necessary. In oral communication, it is not always possible to be so precise in the choice of words. There is also no time to seek and consider words while speaking; however, the receiver can seek clarification on the spot. Besides, oral communication has the support of vocal tone and gestures and expressions while enrich the meaning of the words.
A written message is usually shorter than an oral communication. The situation of oral communication requires some preliminary and closing remarks, while for written messages there are standard formats for opening and closing while can keep the message short.

Expense:

Written communication requires stationary, preparation, and transmission, all of which cost money. Oral communication can also cost a great deal since it requires simultaneous presence and attention of the two parties, and getting together costs money. Cost will depend on the availability of the required person at the particular place. Each type requires different channels for transmission. Availability and cost of each of the channels is a factor to be considered.

1. Informal
2. Formal
2.1 Oral: 2.2 Written:

- Presentation - Memo
- Face to face talk - Report
- Telephone - Business latter
- Public speech - Notice
- Interview - Circular
- Meeting - Minute

One of the most important skill for and entry level dietitian is effective oral and written communication. When you begin the internship programmed, you are expected to have an overall ability to present ideas logically and follow basic rules of English grammar. This does not mean that you are expected to speak and write perfectly. For example, an intern who presents information to an unfamiliar audience may show some nervousness and have an awkward moment: at the beginning of the clinical rotations, rewrites for initial soap notes and investigative studies are not uncommon.

General expectations for oral and written communication skills are listed below; they form the criteria for a satisfactory rating in communication skills at the end of the rotation. In rating an intern’s ability, the preceptor will consider at what stage you are in the program. When you are adequate in oral and written communication skills but have areas in which to continue improvements, the preceptor will make notations under the question “what could the intern do to improve performance?” in the rotation evaluation form. If you need clarification of what is expected for a specific assignment, if after that conversation, you still do not understand what you are expected to do, see your internship director. When a preceptor observes major problems in oral or written communication skills, they will indicate this on the rotation evaluation form.