Communicating Effectively (1:46) Click here to launch video Click here to download print activity

Effective communication is a key to building healthy relationships.

aggressive passive assertive “I” message active listening body language

Communication Styles There are three types of communication styles. Becoming aware of your communication style will help you to understand how others perceive you.

Communication Styles Three Styles of Communication AggressivePassiveAssertive

Communication Styles People with an aggressive communication style may not pay attention to others’ thoughts, feelings, or needs. Aggressive Being overly forceful, pushy, or hostile

Communication Styles People may adopt a passive communication style because they dislike conflict and will go out of their way to avoid an argument. Passive Being unwilling or unable to express thoughts and feelings in a direct or firm manner

Communication Styles Being assertive involves standing up for your rights and beliefs while also respecting those of others. Assertive Expressing your views clearly and respectfully

Ways to Communicate To communicate effectively, you need to learn speaking skills, listening skills, and nonverbal communication. Communication is a two-way street.

Speaking Skills The key to good communication is to say what you mean. It’s not reasonable to expect other people to read your mind or be able to pick up on subtle hints.

Speaking Skills One way to make sure you don’t sound disrespectful when talking about a touchy subject is to use “I” messages. “I” message A statement that focuses on your feelings rather than on someone else’s behavior

Speaking Skills “I feel hurt when I’m left out of a conversation.” “You always ignore me when your other friends are around.” “It bothers me when I get home and find all my CDs in your room.” “You’re always taking my CDs without asking.” “I’m feeling stressed because I have a big project due tomorrow. I’ll take out the trash as soon as I finish working on this.” “I said I’d take out the trash, and I will! You don’t have to nag me about it every five minutes!” “I feel like my suggestions aren’t being taken seriously.” “You never listen to anything I say.” “I really don’t like to be left waiting—it makes me feel like you don’t think I’m important.” “Why can’t you ever show up on time?” “You” Messages“I” Messages

Listening Skills Make sure other people’s messages get through to you by practicing active listening. Active listening Paying close attention to what someone is saying and communicating

Listening Skills Don’t interrupt. Show interest. Show empathy. Restate what you hear. Ask questions.

Nonverbal Communication Your body language affects the meaning of the messages you send. Body language Nonverbal communication through gestures, facial expressions, behaviors, and posture

Nonverbal Communication “I’m really interested in what you’re saying.” “I don’t want to talk to you.” “I’m worried.”

Offering Useful Feedback Offering constructive feedback can improve your relationships with others. The goal of constructive criticism is to bring about positive changes.

Offering Useful Feedback To offer constructive criticism: Use “I” messages that focus on the problem, not on the person. Point out a specific problem, explain why it bothers you, and suggest a solution.

Offering Useful Feedback Letting people know how their actions make you feel isn’t something you should do only when there’s a problem. Let the people in your life know you value them and appreciate what they do for you.

After You Read Reviewing Facts and Vocabulary Aggressive, passive, and assertive 1.What are the three main styles of communication?

After You Read Reviewing Facts and Vocabulary 2.List three ways to show interest in what another person is saying. Sample answer: Face the speaker, make eye contact, nod or make comments at appropriate times

After You Read Reviewing Facts and Vocabulary 3.Define the term body language and give an example. Body language is nonverbal communication through gestures, facial expressions, behaviors, and posture. Nodding to show you agree is one example.