A primary means of conveying messages is oral communication. Speeches, formal one-on-one and group discussions, and the informal rumor mill or grapevine are popular forms of oral communication. The advantages of oral communication are speed, feedback, and exchange. We can convey a verbal message and receive a response in minimal time. If the receiver is unsure of the message, rapid feedback allows the sender to detect and correct it quickly.

Researchers indicate that we are prone to “listener burnout,” in which we tune the other person out and rush to offer advice. Active listening—in which we remove distractions, make eye contact, paraphrase, and encourage the talker to continue—helps us learn more and build trust if we are genuine and not judgmental. One major disadvantage of oral communication surfaces whenever a message has to pass through a number of people: the more people, the greater the potential distortion.

Meetings can be formal or informal, include two or more people, and take place in almost any venue. Although 11 million meetings take place in the United States daily, some people hate them. Good interpersonal communication is key to making meetings effective.