Tips on How to Communicate More Effectively
With all the advances in technology, the one area that sometimes suffers as a result of technology is communications. Below are some tips that might reduce misunderstandings in your workplace.
SUGGESTION: Take one tip at a time and commit to practicing it consciously for a week, then add another one. The depth of communication and understanding with others will deepen as a result of fine-tuning your communication skills.
- Listen more!! Be willing to understand first before being heard and understood. STOP THINKING (i.e., evaluating, judging, preparing your response) when someone is talking and JUST LISTEN.
- Hear beneath the words being said. Look for what the speaker’s intention is in the message, beyond the words. Notice also the speaker’s state of mind, i.e., where is he/she coming from.
- Do not take what someone else says to you personally. The person comes from his/her own frame of reference. Try to walk a mile in their shoes before judging them or responding from a hurt or defensive place.
- Paraphrase back to the speaker what you heard them say. Communication is a 2-way street. It takes two people to make and complete an effective communication. Insure you have listened well and been heard well by paraphrasing back.