Everywhere you turn in this world, you're faced to communicate with friends, family and co-workers in order to build relationtionships. This is what makes the act of communication very important. Though, it's essential to bear in mind that correct communication is far from a simple process. Between words and body language, every message you deliver and receive comes complete with an entire tale to tell.
We credit NetCredit with this awesome communication infographic. Here are some helpful ways you can enhance the way you relay the things you have to say:
- Know What Point You're Trying to Make. Before you begin the conversation, make sure you have clearly defined the goals you're trying to achieve. Be clear on your point. This will facilitate the flow of the conversation and help you stay on track.
- Keep Your Emotions in Check. Depending on the nature of the conversation, any range of emotions may be involved, but it's important to keep negative emotions out of your message. Anger, sadness, unhappiness, and the like can steer your conversation in a bad direction. If your emotions are high, walk away and schedule the talk for another day.
- Be Honest. Elaborating and embellishing is awesome for storytelling, but adult conversations aren't the places where you should be putting your imagination into practice. Stick to the facts, and be concise with your explanations.
- Recap Your Points. Before you pass the talk torch to the other person, recap your points, and make sure he or she is understanding what you're trying to say.
- Focus on Listening. Don't let your mind wander while the other person is participating in the conversation. Keep your mental to-do list at bay, and disregard potential distractions that could harm the outcome of the conversation.
- Don't Interrupt! Wait your turn to talk, and be careful not to interject with impulsive input while it is still the other person's turn to talk. The better you listen, the more respect you'll earn from the other end Interrupting the other person may provoke a range of negative emotions that can steer the entire session way off course.
- Ask Questions. Don't be afraid to ask for clarification. Many disagreements are caused from mere misunderstandings that could have been extinguished in the beginning with a short question and answer session. Asking questions will not only help you understand the other speaker's point, but they may help that person realize he or she isn't conveying his or per point properly.
- Maintain Eye Contact. Eye contact is an essential non-verbal cue that relays respect.
- Be Mindful of Your Body Language. Crossed arms and legs can indicate disinterest or hostility. Furrowed brows and tilted heads can signify disbelief or boredom. Be aware of what your body is doing so you can maintain open communication.
Do you have tips to help people learn how to communicate more clearly? Comment below!
