Communicating and Relating

Good Relationships Require lots of work Require lots of energy Require respect Require healthy give and take

Building a Reciprocal Relationship In a reciprocal relationship, the amount of give and take is about equal

Definitions Mixed Message: –Simultaneously sent messages that are contradictory in meaning. Often the verbal and non-verbal message does not match. Affirmation: –Are positive expressions that smooth the way to mutual respect, understanding and cooperation

Respect Showing disrespect is the fastest road to communication breakdown Showing respect is one of the simplest ways to increase the effectiveness of your communication

Respect Con’t Things you need to do: –Check your tone –Let others speak without interrupting –Show you are paying attention –Use please, thank-you and excuse me

Things that Affect Communication Physical Environment Age Person’s mood Energy level

Listening There are two ways to listen: –Active Listening –Passive Listening

Active Listening The listener interacts with the speaker and pays close attention to what the speaker is saying, feeling and doing.

Active Listening Techniques Asking for feedback Asking for clarification Empathizing with the speaker Avoiding judgment or giving advice

Passive Listening Means listening quietly and attentively. The passive listening may nod or gesture to indicate understanding but does not make comments or ask questions

Effective Listening Maintain eye contact Listen for main points of the conversation Identify nonverbal and verbal messages Avoid only listening for what you want to hear Mentally process what you are hearing. Ask questions to clarify messages

Communication Failure Making incorrect assumptions Differing viewpoints Cultural differences

When you do not know what to say! Choose topics that are easy to talk about Play an active part in the conversation Avoid talking too little or too much Be sincere and honest

Questions 1)Think about a conversation that you have had with males and females. Compare and contract the ways that males and females communicate. 2)Identify one area in which your communication skills tend to be weak. Write examples of what you plan to do or say to improve these skills. For example. Identify a plan of action you can take to become more aware of how your communication affects other.