Effective Communication

Communication is defined as the transmission of information, thought, or feeling so that it is satisfactorily received or understood Being a good communicator comes naturally to some, but most people need to make a conscious effort to improve their communication skills

Why Is Effective Communication Important? to learn something to make intelligent decisions to have meaningful relationships to save time to be successful to make money to share information to understand a situation to solve problems to create “win-win” situations to be an informed consumer

Effective Communication Tips Be an active listener Ensure the nonverbal (body language) message matches the verbal message Ensure communication is two-way and not just a one-way flow Conduct perception checks to ensure you are not making false assumptions

Active Listening Look at the speaker Show positive body posture and gestures Summarize periodically to ensure understanding Ask questions to –show interest –clarify information Don’t interrupt

Nonverbal Communication This is everything else in the message besides the spoken words – facial expression, body posture, gestures, tone of voice, etc. When the nonverbal and verbal messages disagree, the listener usually receives the nonverbal communication

Nonverbal Comm’n, cont’d

Two-Way Communication Look for clues to indicate understanding Repeat a message Explain the message in a different way (use different words, use an analogy, etc.) Ask for feedback

Perception Checks Different people show emotions differently We interpret the same situation differently based on our own past experiences We can only truly know what another person is feeling by asking

Other Tips Be open and honest Use voice inflections; don’t talk in monotone Describe your feelings Give messages appropriate to the receiver (speak at their level). Be forthright, yet tactful Use “I” messages

“I” Messages In conflict situations, we often use “you” statements: –“You are rude.” –“You make me mad.” –“You never do anything around here.” “You” messages judge, blame, and assume things. They usually generalize and often result in defensiveness.

“I” Messages “I” messages don’t judge, blame, criticize, or insult. They don’t invite counterattack. They are usually more accurate. They help us take ownership of our thoughts and feelings.

“I” Messages, cont’d Can simply state your feelings – “I feel upset.” Can relate your feelings to someone else’s actions – “I feel hurt when you insult me in front of our friends.” Can relate your feelings and state a desired action that will help – “I feel really tired and would like you to do your half of the housework.”