Feb 3 2012
Communication Success
I was recently interviewed on the question of “What makes a successful communicator?”
In Summary this is what I shared:
- Communication is about creating shared meaning and understanding
- Be mindful of how your message will be received understood, and adapt accordingly
- Always check if your communication is received and understood
- Listen for how the other person feels about the information (emotional response)
- Aim to create dialogue. Try saying”do you mind if I ask you a question?
- Discover what’s important to them. Ask, “what’s important to you about this?”
- Summarise the conversation to confirm understanding
- Suspend your own mental maps to avoid missing out on the other person’s perspective
- Be ok with silence – the other person is probably processing what you said.
What I didn’t say in the interview which is very important, is that you must get the other parties attention first. An obvious tip but one that is often missed.
February 3rd, 2012 at 6:34 pm
Fantastic interview and great tips/points. I especially agree with “Listen for how the other person feels about the information (emotional response)”
Many in a leadership role neglect the basic responses from those who are more than likely the most important.
Look forward to reading more.
Thanks
Dr. Dan
February 20th, 2012 at 8:04 pm
This might seem like a strange suggestion, but I find that acceptance is a key part of communication. I find that when I get frustrated or impatient, it’s because I’m not really listening to the other person, and that’s usually because I’m not accepting them as they are; I’m wishing they were somehow different, perhaps more like me! I’m wishing the other person would get to the point, or explain more, or have a broader perspective, or focus on the details. I find that by accepting them, honestly, as they are, I can listen and understand their point of view, their world, and that means I can relate to them and communicate with them. Of course, I have to work at it, who doesn’t!! But it’s worth it.