INTERESTING
Communication - effective communication - is an essential ingredient in any interaction. In this time of limited access, and significantly altered life style’s, our style of communication has also changed.
Communication is defined as the imparting or exchanging of information or news. Communication takes place when one person transmits information and understanding to another person.
This current pandemic has altered the lives of everyone. As a result, many have reacted with fear and anxiety over their safety and their future.
Effective communication has always been a challenge, and in times like these, it is especially challenging.
Effective is defined as producing a desired or intended result.
Effective communication is the ability to impart your information and receive feedback that it has been understood. Essential to that process is active listening. Listening to understand, listening for clarity and content. Being respectful, having consideration for the feelings and rights of others.
There are four types of communication.
Verbal
Non-verbal
Written
Visual
The first step is developing what you want to convey. Clarity is essential. Often time communication can be wordy, vague, boring or confusing. Take the time to gain clarity on exactly what it is you want to convey.
The next step is deciding how you will communicate.
The most optimal is usually direct contact. Communication is so much more that just imparting information.
Research has shown that words are only 7% of your communication. Tone of voice, body language, facial expression, the feeling and energy of your delivery, how animated you are, or how bored you are. The list includes everything that you do during your communication!
If you want to get an idea of how you communicate, video or record yourself. Pretend you are either sitting in front of someone, or on the phone , and listen to how you convey your information. Listen to your voice, your inflections, your tone, your energy... it all contributes to the perception the receiver has of your communication.
Non-verbal communication is very valuable, and can be used in so many ways. I am certain that everyone reading this can give an excellent example of how you recently used non-verbal communication . We always teased my Mother about “the look” she had. It said volumes, and she never once had to utter a word!
Written communication usually gives us the opportunity to choose our words carefully so that they reflect accurately what it is we want to convey. Words have a power and energy all their own. Think of how different it feels calling something a problem, or referring to it as a challenge, or opportunity. Written communication lends itself to being clear and concise.
Visual communication is now in many different formats. Our education system its currently holding classes in a virtual setting. Our healthcare system is utilizing telehealth visits as an option for treatment when appropriate.
No matter what format /formats you opt to use, you must first develop the information you want to convey. Next is to gain clarity, and state your information concisely.
Then decide on your approach, such as the timing of the communication, your choice of medium, the tone and point of view.
The next step is to develop your information in a logical way, provide necessary detail, strive for accuracy.
Review, if appropriate, for correctness, word choices, grammar, punctuation and appropriateness.
And always ask for feedback when able. No matter how well you have organized your information, if the receiver does not understand your message, your communication has not been effective. The whole point of communication is to exchange and/or impart information or news. Without feedback, one wouldn’t know if their information was received and understood. Feedback also invites the opportunity for further dialog, which can contribute to better understanding.
We are communicating more than we realize. Being mindful of the many aspects that go into communication now allows you to make specific choices regarding your communications.
Remember, smiling will add a smile to your voice, a smile in your eyes, a smile in your words and a smile to your step!
