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| by Heather Waring of www.waringwell.com Communication is central to all of us in our every day lives and I often find myself thinking how many problems could be solved or avoided in the first place if people actually did communicate. Just recall how frustrating it is to be in a situation where there is no communication. You feel as if you have no control, it makes it hard to make a decision and you have no idea how long this situation is to last. At least if someone explains what has happened, why and gives some indication of how long it might take before things are sorted again, it’s not so bad. Any piece of information does help. Good communication skills are necessary to get ahead. Without them, many things do not happen as intended or even at all. Think about how many times a day you communicate, does it always go as planned? E.g. as a parent you might tell your child to clean their room after school. What does that mean to your child? Is it possible that their definition of clean and yours may be different? When you come to check the room will it live up to your expectations? If not, then somewhere along the line there was a breakdown in communications. When you ask someone to do something, be certain that everyone understands. How you would like to be communicated to? What is important for you? What do you need to know? Would it be useful to ask others the same question? When communicating, check why you are doing it? Are you attempting to inform people, are you asking for information or are you wanting to bring about some action? After you have communicated, ask the other person to tell you what you just said. You will be amazed at how often this doesn’t come over as you expected. What does that tell you and how can you act on it? Perhaps you need to remember to express yourself clearly and briefly! When it's your turn to speak, think how you can get your message over clearly. As well as talking, communicating effectively also depends on listening actively. That means listening to the whole story, listening with your whole self, listening to the silences as well as the words and to the tone, pitch etc. It means setting aside other issues and judgemental thoughts, not jumping to conclusions before hearing what the other person has to say, and not interrupting. Good communication skills involve both parties. Acknowledge the person speaking, give them space to talk and listen to what they are saying. Use nods, facial expressions and comments such as "I see," "Okay," and "I understand." This says you follow their reasoning and relate to their explanations. It also lets them know that it's okay to leave one subject and move on to the next. If at any point you don't understand something, simply ask them to clarify it. Get into the habit of summarizing the main points! This promotes accuracy and understanding as well as reinforcing the information and allowing the person/ people you are talking to, to correct any misinterpretations. Also remember to be sensitive to your audience and package information appropriately, be approachable so that people will be encouraged to ask questions and get clarification and be flexible over the way forward and the action needed. Part of communication is negotiation. Finally, do what you say you will do. This will build trust and loyalty and ensure that people will listen in the future. Heather Waring The Career Development Strategist |
| Posted: 04/06/2007 14:42:04 Last Updated: 04/06/2007 14:43:12 |
Chick Lit > Business Chicks :: Learn how to be heard by others