COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Did you know: Effective communication is really hard to do!

Communication is not just a simple exchange of information. So many things can go wrong and it’s important to really understand the emotions behind what you want to communicate, the reasons why you are communicating and what you want the outcome to be. It is also two way. You have to be a good speaker as well as a good listener and that’s not easy.

Good communication can greatly enhance your working relationships, and your job satisfaction. Over the next two weeks we are going to explore some of the common mistakes people make while communicating.

1. Not Editing Your Work

Mistakes with spelling, tone, and grammar make you look careless. That’s why it’s essential to check all your emails, texts, reports or any written work before sending them.

2. Delivering Bad News by Email

Written communication channels don’t allow you to soften difficult messages with nonverbal cues (such as ), and they don’t allow you to deal immediately with intense emotions. If you need to deliver bad news, do this in person, and think carefully about how you can do it sensitively, so that you can convey your message and at the same time minimise chances of upsetting someone

3. Avoiding Difficult Conversations

At some point, you will need to give negative feedback. Preparation is the key to handling difficult conversations. Learn to give clear, actionable feedback. You may also want to role-play your conversation first, so that you feel confident in both your words and your body language.

4. Not Being Assertive

Assertiveness  is about stating what you need, while considering the wants and needs of others. You may not always get your way when you’re assertive, but you stand a better chance of getting it, or of reaching a compromise, because you’ve been clear about your needs.

5.   Reacting, Not Responding

Have you ever shouted at a colleague in frustration, or sent a terse reply to an email, without thinking your point through? If so, you’re likely to have reacted emotionally, instead of responding calmly. This kind of emotional reaction can really affect how others think about you and potentially damage relationships. Always take a moment to reflect before you re

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