How to Communicate Better With People
Effective communication is necessary in business communications and when building any kind of relationship. Some people seem to have a knack for communicating clearly and positively, but you can develop skills that help you communicate better with people. It is particularly helpful to work on developing relationships with people so you get to know their verbal and nonverbal cues.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Start to really pay attention and listen to people when they talk to you. Watch for subtle nonverbal cues that let you in on how the person feels. If someone pounds on a table while talking, for example, he may be emphasizing part of a message. A person who smirks while making a statement may not mean what she's saying.
-
2
Ask questions so you can understand where the person is coming from. Wait for the other person to finish answering before respond. Then acknowledge that you have heard what he says before continuing the conversation. You can do this by emphasizing or paraphrasing his point.
-
-
3
Don't always be on the asking end of the conversation. If you receive good advice, follow up and thank the person that gave you the advice. Try to bring value to the people you are building relationships with.
-
4
Be clear in how you express yourself. Make sure your body language is open and expressive. Remember that how you hold yourself or the tone of voice you use when you speak send nonverbal cues to the person you're with. Don't allow yourself to be misinterpreted.
-
5
Leave volatile situations, and come back to them when you and the other person can talk calmly. In situations of extreme conflict, ask for help. Consider having someone to mediate in the room or seek conflict management counseling.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit BananaStock/BananaStock/Getty Images
