“ I broke up with John. We just can ’ t communicate anymore. ” “ Office Communication system – computers, telephones, printers ” “ Scientists study communication among ants and dolphins. ” COMMUNICATION “… the process of human beings responding to the symbolic behavior of other persons. ” (Adler & Rodman, 2003, p.2)

TYPES OF COMMUNICATION Intrapersonal Communication Dyadic/Interpersonal Communication Small group Communication Public Communication Mass Communication

Why do you need communication skills training? Physical Needs – health Identity Needs – who am I? Social Needs – relax, have fun, belong Practical Needs – get what you want

# A survey of 400 employers identified “ communication skills ” as the top characteristic that employer seek in job candidates. More important than: technical competence, work experience, and academic background. # A survey of 500 U.S. business stated that 90% personnel officials regards communication skills to be necessary for success in twenty-first century. (Adler & Rodman, 2003)

COMMUNICATION MODEL

What do you need to be effective communicators? Presenting ideas clearly in words Body language – non verbal behaviors Active listening Responding appropriately Seek common ground

What communication skills do you need to know? Assertiveness skills Rapport-building skills Making a Speech Skills Group Skills Presentation Skills Negotiation Skills (not covered) Deal-making Skills (not covered)

COMMUNICATION COMPETENCE There is no ‘ ideal ’ way to communicate Competence is situational Competence is relational Competence can be learned

Characteristics of Competent Communicators Know a wide range of behaviors Have the ability to choose the most appropriate behaviors Have the skills to perform the behaviors Able to take other ’ s perspective/empathy Able to analyze the behaviors of others Able to self-monitor Have commitment to the relationship

Misconceptions about Communication Communication does not always require complete understanding Communication is not always a good thing No single person or event causes another reaction Communication will not solve all problems Meaning rest in people, not words Communication is not simple More communication is not always better