Some Basic Communication Skills
We all have our own way of communicating information to others. But in spite of people’s communication differences, there are basic communication skills we all can incorporate in our communication styles. Here are some basic communication skills everyone should try and use to increase their communicating abilities. The first consideration when looking at basic communication skills is that we all see the world differently. So as a result we transmit information according to how we view it. One thing a person should do when transmitting and receiving information is to try and see the other persons view point as well. If we incorporate this aspect into our basic communication skills we increase our communication capabilities by reaching more people through understanding their way of thinking in addition to the way we think about things.
The second consideration in basic communication skills is to be engaging. That means when interacting on a communicative level do you capture the interest of the person you are trying to communicate with? If you don’t then they will physically be there but not even listen to what you are saying much less understand it. The basic communication skills of engagement requires you to be receptive to the and responsive to the listener. This kind of interaction draws the person with whom you are trying to communicate with into your conversation. Being pleasant is also a plus. If there is any anxiety or conflict around the communication this can help dissipate it. Being patient, clear, positive and realistic are all basic communication skills as well. Being patient and treating impatient people with patience is one of the most difficult things to do with interpersonal communication. If it is too difficult to be patient with a impatient person, you can very politely excuse yourself and tell them you understand their frustration and will give them a minute to regroup so together you can try and come to some understanding. I know this is easier said than done. Clarity is another one of those basic communication skills that is essential to any communication. It is important to be clear so the listener interprets the information the communicator intends for it to be understood as. Clarity includes being a critical listener, where we may reiterate or ask the listener for their interpretation of what is being said as we speak. This way any misunderstanding can be immediately cleared up. Also clarity lets the listener know exactly what your position is with no confusion as to where you stand. Being positive and realistic are also very important when engaging in communication. It is always easier to see the bad in something instead of good. When we focus on the positive even in a negative situation we can decrease some of the natural tension that exists in a difficult moment. But you have to also be realistic and if something needs to be said that is not pleasant. If this is the case; then it must be said but in a humane manor. Once again put yourself in the persons shoes to see how you would feel if you were given particular information and what would make you react a little better if given that information. These are just a few basic communication skills that when utilized can make one’s communication with others a little easier. Of course like anything else the more one practices the better one becomes even in communication. |
