Character Trait: Communication (Part 1) Based on pages 50-60 of What Do You Stand For? For Teens: A Guide to Building Character by Barbara A. Lewis and How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

What does this mean? “My belief is that communication is the best way to create strong relationships.” -Jada Pinkett Smith

Genuine Communication

The Importance of Listening “You have two eyes, two ears, and only one mouth for a reason.”

10 Ways to be a Great Communicator

1. Speak LSC (Loudly, Slowly, Clearly) Imagine that you are trying to communicate to the person furthest away in the room. Speak loudly, slowly, and clearly to get your message to that person.

2. Really Listen Look at the person when he or she is speaking Pay attention to body language (53% of communication) Pay attention to tone/feeling (40% of communication) Try to see things from the other person’s perspective

3. Remember SNEB Smile tells others that you like them and are glad to see them. Smile even when on the phone; the smile will be clear in the tone of your voice. Nod your head to show you are interested Eye contact also shows you are interested Body language counts. Sit facing the speaker. Don’t cross arms or slouch in your seat.

4. Ask Questions If you don’t understand what the other person is saying, ask clarifying questions By simply asking questions, others will think you are a great conversationalist

5. Give Examples To help support what you are saying, give examples

6. Give Feedback If others ask you questions, be willing to answer them

7. Take Turns Speaking Don’t dominate the conversation Recognize that others may wish to speak as well

8. Talk About the Other Person’s Interests Use the other person’s name, it’s a person’s favorite word! Begin any conversation discussing the other’s interests and you’ll find them to be much more open to suggestion If you talk to people about themselves, they will keep listening and listening When in doubt, talk about the three F’s – Friends, Family, and Fun activities

9. Never Criticize People very rarely criticize themselves no matter how wrong they may be. Your criticism will not be welcomed. Criticism puts others on the defensive, hurts self esteem, and builds resentment. Criticism is futile. Positive Reinforcement works better. For example, criticizing soldiers for not wearing their helmets is less effective than asking if the helmets are uncomfortable and reminding them that the hats were designed for their protection.

10. Be Present Give the person speaking your full and undivided attention

Activity Cards Divide into groups of 3-5 students. Read and discuss the questions on the 8 activity cards.

On Your Own