Good communication skill is a vital bedrock of all social settings, especially the workplace, where their absence can lead to deteriorating conditions in the company’s and its workers’ welfare. Below are seven tips to improve good communication flow with people around you.
1. Pay attention.
To improve your communication skills, you need to be able to pay attention to the conversation. This means staying focused on the topic and not letting your mind wander. Also, try not to let yourself get distracted by anything else that is going on around you.
When someone is speaking to you, it is rude to interrupt or multitask by doing things such as checking your phone or looking around the room. Instead, you should make eye contact and give the person your full attention so that they feel respected.
2. Listen actively.
Active listening is a crucial communication skill. It’s about hearing what the other person is saying and trying to understand their message. When actively listening, you pay attention to both the words and the speaker’s body language. Then, you engage in the conversation to show you’re involved.
3. Repeat back what you have heard.
Repeating what you have heard is one way to show that you have actively listened. Doing this lets the other person know that you have understood them and also gives you a chance to check that you have understood them correctly.
This will prevent information bypass issues that usually disrupt the essence of communication.
4. Body language
Your body language can convey a lot about your intentions and your level of interest in a conversation.
Here are a few key things to keep in mind regarding body language.
First, maintain eye contact with the person you’re speaking to. This shows that you’re interested in what they have to say. Second, avoid crossing your arms or legs, as this can make you seem defensive or uninterested. Third, Smile! This makes you appear friendly and approachable.
Finally, keep an open posture by keeping your hands uncrossed and your body facing the person you’re speaking to.
By being aware of your body language, you can ensure that you’re conveying the right message in your interactions with others.
5. Keep an open mind.
When communicating with others, it is essential to maintain an open mind. This means respecting others’ opinions and viewpoints, even if they differ from yours. It also means listening to others and considering what they have to say.
Keeping an open mind will show that you are respectful and considerate of others, which will help create a more positive and productive communication environment.
6. Be clear and concise
Good communication etiquette also includes being clear and concise in your communication. Avoid jargon and use language that everyone can understand. It is also about staying on topic and not straying off into tangents.
7. Be assertive, not aggressive.
Assertiveness is about communicating your needs and wants in a way that is respectful of others. It is about standing up for yourself and speaking your truth. Assertive communication skills are essential in both our personal and professional lives. Proactive communication can help you set boundaries, resolve conflict, and build better relationships.
By being assertive, you can express yourself clearly and directly without violating the rights of others or putting them on the defensive. On the other hand, being aggressive often includes resorting to threats or violence to get what you want, which is not conducive to etiquette.
In conclusion, good communication is an important life skill. It can make or break relationships, both personal and professional. Use the seven tips mentioned above to build good communication skills with people around you.
