Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Management Practice Test

What type of communication is represented by telling an employee that their lunch break is too long?

1. Written communication

2. Oral communication

3. Both written and oral

4. Nonverbal communication

The correct answer is: Oral communication

Telling an employee that their lunch break is too long is an example of oral communication. Oral communication involves the spoken exchange of information between individuals. This can take place in various settings, such as face-to-face conversations, phone calls, or meetings. In this scenario, the act of directly addressing the employee and discussing the duration of their lunch break falls squarely within the realm of verbal interaction, where tone, inflection, and immediate comprehension play crucial roles. Because this communication is delivered verbally and allows for real-time feedback and clarification from both parties, it highlights the importance of oral communication in workplace settings. Other forms of communication, such as written communication, would involve messages conveyed through written text, such as emails or memos, which are not applicable here since the scenario explicitly describes a verbal exchange. Nonverbal communication pertains to conveying messages without spoken words, often through body language or gestures, which also does not apply to this situation. Therefore, the identification of this interaction as oral communication accurately reflects the nature of the engagement happening between the speaker and the employee.