You’ve probably heard a lot of people stress on how essential communication is, with particular focus on its importance in the workplace.
The game of football is one of the best analogies to utilize in describing the concept of communication. In a football game, if the ball is not passed to fellow players on the field, then it’s not really a game, and it would get tiring for everyone.
Communication is an exchange or transfer of information, and it is effective when that exchange/transfer is successfully done. There are three neglected but crucial elements that ensure effective communication:
- Listening: Being present and attentive to a speaker enables you to understand the information in whatever form it is presented, as well as understand the speaker’s feelings or point of view. This understanding helps the individual to respond appropriately to the information that has been passed. If one listens actively and responds appropriately, the speaker feels heard and seen, and this can foster very good relationships.
- Clarity: Imagine trying to hunt on a really foggy morning. This is similar to communicating without clarity which often occurs when we have so many things to say at once. We would not be communicating if the person we are speaking to doesn’t understand the precise message we are trying to pass across. For example, it can really be frustrating to utilize sarcasm with someone who takes everything literally.
- Non-verbal Cues: Beyond the words that are said, the expression on our faces, our postures, tone, and gestures while communicating give meaning to what is being said.
Effective communication truly helps to foster better relationships, both work-related and personal. It enables decision making and team building. It also increases productivity and better workflow.
Want to learn more about practical steps you can utilize in handling business relationships via effective communication, ethics, and etiquette? Our Introduction to Business Etiquette course delves into strategies that would help you to develop your personal and professional brand, giving you a competitive edge within the business environment.
At the end of this course, you would know what to do in any business setting, when to do it, and how to do it with grace and style.
Quote – “To effectively communicate, we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world, and use this understanding as a guide to communicate with others” – Tony Robbins
