Practicing Communication Skills

What Is Communication COMMUNICATION- The exchange of information through the use of words or actions. Sending and receiving messages What are ways you communicate with others?

Verbal and Nonverbal Communication BODY LANGUAGE- postures, gestures, and facial expressions. Posture- how you hold your body Gestures- motions you make with your hands Your Body language can speak louder than our words? How? MIXED MESSAGE- a situation in which your words say one thing but your body language says another. If your body language does not match the tone of your voice. Can make communication difficult. How?

Good Communication Skills Good communication involves sending and receiving information that is understood by everyone involved. Communication in person is the most direct way. Both Verbal and Nonverbal communication happens.

Speaking Skills Think, then speak Make Clear, Simple Statements Avoid saying the first thing you think of. Plan what you might say Make Clear, Simple Statements Be specific, stick to the subject. Be Honest Be polite but say what you really think.

Speaking Skills Use “I” MESSAGES- speak from your point of view to send the message. Avoid starting with “you” Use Appropriate Body Language Make eye contact Avoid mixed messages Be careful with gestures, they may mean different things in different cultures. Pointing can be considered rude in some cultures.

Listening Skills ACTIVE LISTENING- hearing, thinking about, and responding to another person’s message. Pay attention Listen and think about the message you are receiving. Use Body language Face and look at the person speaking

Listening Skills Wait your turn Ask questions Let the other person finish speaking Avoid interrupting. Ask questions When appropriate. Use I messages Mirror thoughts and feelings Repeat back in your own words what you believe the other person said.

Writing Skills Nonverbal communication does not go through written messages Write clear, simple statements Reread your words before you send the message.

Your Communication Style A communicator can be assertive, aggressive, or passive ASSERTIVE- states his or her position in a firm but positive way Shows respect for self and others Examples?

Your Communication Style AGGRESSIVE- overly forceful, pushy, hostile, or otherwise attacking in approach May be selfish and not show respect for others Can hurt feelings and may make others angry Examples?

Your Communication Style PASSIVE- has a tendency to give up, give in, or back down without standing up for his or her rights and needs. May care too much about what others think of them. May have low confidence or self-respect