How to Communicate Effectively

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By MSmith
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Communicatin

Communication is defined as the imparting or interchange of thoughts, opinions, or information by speech, writing, or signs. The message is transferred by the sender in a manner that is clearly interpreted by the receiver just the way the sender means it. This would be considered a good communication. Having a good communication is utterly important in all aspects of our daily lives.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

To start a good communication, we need to set our expectation first. As the message giver, we need to be clear and specific ourselves why we have to give the message and what we want the other person to understand. Never assume others know what we expect. If you want your child to be home no later than 11 pm, you wouldn’t just tell him not to stay out too late. 11 pm might be considered to be late for one person, but not for another.
Step 2

Secondly, we have to pay attention to the other person, make them feel they are an important part in the process. Always confirm that your message is clearly understood before moving to the next topic. At the same time, make clear to the other person that their input is understood by us.
Step 3

Keep an open mind when communicating with someone. Often times, we form a perception about someone from hearsays, prior experience and even our first impression of the person. Before communication starts, we already have an assumption which can be interference during the process. If someone has a reputation of being late, when you ask the person to be at an appointment at 2 pm, clearly repeat 2 pm. There is no need assuming the person will be late. It is unnecessary to focus on telling the person not to be late, or even go to the extend of reminding the person how he is always late. Chances are that the person will remember everything else said except the time he needs to be there.
Step 4

Use good judgment when deciding on the method of communicating the subject matter. There are three main ways of communication: face to face (verbal or sign), telephone and written. Lengthy instructions and directions are best given in a written form, and if it is given over the phone, it is best repeated by the receiver for accuracy and understanding. Face to face conversations deal with sensitive matters more effectively when feedbacks from the other person can make or break the flow of communication.
Step 5

Develop good habits of effective communication. If you are talking to someone about an important issue, put your phone on silence or off the hook. Focus on the conversation. Make sure you allow enough time to convey your message and confirm the message is understood. Any feed back should be verbally acknowledged. Slow down and use simple word if you are talking to a younger child or someone who does not have a full control of the language spoken. Ask them questions to make sure they understood what you just said.