Communicating in a business environment takes on new meaning as technology continues to advance. No longer can you assume that communication indicates a face-to-face conversation or a chat over the telephone. In this day, many communicate by email, text message and through social networking sites. However, this is not always the ideal way to express yourself when it comes to increasing sales or dealing with other aspects of business. Sometimes, verbal communication is important to the progress of your business and to feeling the pulse of your customers.

Eliminate Misunderstandings

Sometimes nonverbal messages, such as email, may be misunderstood by the receiver. This can cause friction in a personal relationship. However, in business, it can mean the loss of a valuable customer or a denied opportunity to build your client base. Having in-person or telephone conversations reduces the risk of coming across the wrong way. If you have something difficult to explain, such as pricing that is higher than your competitor's, it's better to approach the subject fact-to-face rather than through an unemotional nonverbal exchange.

Connect with More People

Sending out mass emails is a marketing technique used by large and small companies. However, there may be a portion of your target market that does not use email on a regular basis. That is why it is important to market both through online media and in person. If your target market consists mostly of the elderly, for example, it may be in your best interest to call prospective customers and meet with them. Also, some top executives may have their emails screened by assistants or other employees. If it's important for you to gain the attention of someone high in the chain of command, calling to schedule a meeting may be the most effective way to get your message to them.

Respond to Objections

Hearing someone's voice over the phone or talking in person helps you to pull out any objections to buying your product or service. A short or terse email that does not explain why you are being turned down does not give you an opportunity to directly respond to a potential customer's concerns. Having your client read your facial expressions and body language is important to conveying your sincerity. This will serve you well when your response to the objections are reasonable and you are able to sense any hesitancy on your prospect's part.

Create a Relationship

In business, deals can be made through the relationships that you have with others. If you are in sales, developing that relationship, if does not exist already, should be a priority to increase your revenue. When communicating only by email, text message or through social networks, you lose the ability to bond on an emotional level with your customers and to create a sense of trust. Using verbal communication to create and grow your relationship with prospects and existing customers will encourage them to discuss objections or disappointments with a product or express excitement about working with you professionally.