8 More Effective Ways to Communicate
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines communication as the act or process of using words, sounds, signs, or behaviors to express or exchange information or to express your ideas, thoughts, feelings, etc., to someone else
1. Understand People Communicate Differently
Everyone comes to the discussion table with a vast array of differences. Understand that many factors play a part in the way we communicate; age, culture, education, examples, experiences, beliefs etc. and do your best to respect those differences.
2. Ask Questions
Repeat what you heard and ask if you heard it correctly. Ask what you can do to make the situation/future better. Ask what you did that they believed was in error. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and take responsibility.
3. Relax
It is so very easy to raise our blood pressure, increase our heart beat and start breathing shallow (all things that happen during times of tension). However, these things cloud our judgment and cause us to go from logical mindset to emotional mindset.
4. Know What You Want and Ask for It
So many arguments start from misunderstandings or miscommunications. No one is a psychic or mind-reader. Let your partner know exactly what you are asking for and also ask for clarification if you are unclear on the needs/wants of your partner.
5. Remain Silent to Entice More Info
Instead of immediately answering after your partner’s completed statement, remain silent but attentive. This can actually encourage people to volunteer more information than they would have done otherwise.
6. Practice Empathy/Be Empathetic
By just listening to tone, speed of language, and body cues it is easy to recognize a person’s emotional state. If your partner is showing signs of sadness/distress etc. give them your sympathy by either an understanding nod or verbal, “that must be tough” etc.
When people feel heard and understood they are far more relaxed to share and trust more.
7. Be Present and Engaged
One of the easiest ways to get someone to respond to you in a positive manner when you are communicating is to appear enthusiastic in regards to what they are telling you. No one is going to want to talk to you if you sigh, roll your eyes, or seem otherwise impatient or bored while they are trying to convey their information.
8. Smile (if the discussion is light-hearted)
Nothing sets a nervous partner at ease better than a friendly smile. A genuine smile can often entice an otherwise quiet or reserved person to be more open and willing to communicate. They are invaluable for setting nervous or apprehensive individuals at ease. A smile also lets your partner know you are interested in listening and invested in the discussion.
