In this 4 part series we will take a look at how learning better communication skills can help you better understand a situation or person. Being able to communicate effectively can help us resolve differences, build respect and trust and to create an environment where things such as problem solving, affection, caring and creative ideas can flow and flourish.
Communicate To Others
As simple as communication is (and sounds) much of what we try to communicate to others and in turn – them to us often gets misunderstood. This can lead to frustrations and conflict in both your personal life and in your professional life. It is by learning good communication skills that you will be able to connect better with your friends, family and co workers.
So what actually is good – or effective communication? In our day to day lives we have to send and receive a large number of messages, and good communication skills are about more than just exchanging information. To possess good communication skills you also need to understand the emotions behind the message. It is by gaining this skill you can improve your relationships at work, at home and in social situations by deepening your connection to others. This can improve your teamwork, problem solving, job interview and decision making skills. You will be able to communicate even those messages you find hard or awkward to deliver without destroying other peoples trust or creating a conflict.
Good communication skills combine many skills including listening, managing your own stress levels, and an ability to understand the emotions of the person you are communicating with. While these skills are learnt remember it is more effective when spontaneous. For example a speech that is just read aloud lacks the impact that a spontaneous speech (or one that sounds that way) will have. It does of course take time to learn these skills, but with time and effort you can become a good communicator and the more practice you put in, the more spontaneous your communication skills will become.
Our remaining 3 articles will look at the ways you can gain good communication skills – helpful at work or at home – these skills include – listening, non-verbal communication such as body language and facial expressions, stress management – you can’t communicate effectively if you are angry or stressed, emotional awareness both yours and the person you are talking to – be mindful of other peoples personalities and emotions.
These tips will help you through situations at work, job interviews and dealing with family and friends. Good communication skills are needed in certain occupations, and are definitely handy in those stressful interview situations where being able to *read* the interviewer is so important if you want to ace that interview and secure that job. Alternatively those looking for promotions and advancements at work will also find these tips very helpful to deal with bosses and co-workers.
Join us next time to see how being a good listener can help you communicate better.
Do you find good communication skills are a must in your line of work? What jobs or careers do you feel those skills are most needed in? We always love to hear what our readers have to say.
