Dear Readers,
This week I'm excited to share some effective communication techniques. We all have things we want to express, but sometimes, it's hard to find the right words. For example, a client of mine had trouble speaking up at work, which made it tough for them to connect with their colleagues. How can we make our communication better and build stronger relationships? Let's explore some easy ways together.
Listen more, talk less: Imagine communication as a game of give and take. Sometimes, it's more about listening than talking. Actively listening means really paying attention to what the other person is saying and showing them you understand. Try repeating back what they've said in your own words to show you're listening. My client found this particularly helpful at work. I advised her to listen more during meetings and ask clarifying questions to show her colleagues she valued their input. By being a good listener, you'll build trust and make it easier for others to open up to you.
Body language: Did you know that a big part of communication isn't just what you say, but how you say it? Your body language, like how you sit or your facial expressions, can say a lot without you even speaking. Try to keep an open and relaxed posture and make eye contact when you're talking to someone. My client struggled with maintaining eye contact, especially in stressful situations. I encouraged her to practice making eye contact during one-on-one conversations with colleagues, which helped her feel more confident and engaged. Don't forget to pay attention to the other person's body language too – it can give you clues about how they're feeling.
Put yourself in their shoes: Communication isn't just about words; it's about understanding each other's feelings too. Empathetic communication means trying to see things from the other person's point of view, use language such as "I can see why you'd feel that way." My client struggled with this initially, especially when dealing with difficult colleagues. I advised her to put herself in their shoes and consider what might be causing their behaviour. It helped her approach conversations with more empathy and understanding, which improved her relationships at work.
Speak their language: We all have our own way of talking, and it's important to match our communication style to the person we're talking to. Some people like lots of details, while others prefer things short and sweet. Try to adapt your communication style to suit the other person. For instance, if you're talking to someone who likes to get straight to the point, keep your message clear and concise.
Improving your communication skills is all about practice and being open to learning. By listening more, watching your body language, showing empathy, and adapting your communication style, you'll build better relationships and make it easier for others to understand you. Remember, communication is a two-way street – let's make sure we're all on the same page!
