Part 1.
Have you ever asked yourself, what is communication to you?
For me, communication is more than words.
There are so many other aspects to communicating, than simply speaking words.
To master the art of communication, what does this involve?
The most integral part is…
1.) Listening
Why is it?
Some people can struggle to listen, but if you are not listening, how do you know what the end goal is? Listening is important as it will tell you a lot about the person you’re communicating with.
What are the benefits of listening?
- It will help to build trust.
- It will ensure there is no conflict.
- You won’t miss important information you need to know.
- You will have a better understanding.
2.) Body Language
What makes body language important?
Body language is a vital component of communication. It can make or break a conversation/interaction. It can show the person/ audience you’re talking to if you’re being truthful and how well you are listening.
What are the benefits of positive body language?
- You will build trust.
- You will be easy to understand.
- And you will build good relationships.
Have you heard of the 55/38/7 Formula?
Here’s an interesting fact about body language…
Albert Mehrabian, a researcher of body language, who first broke down the components of a face-to-face conversation. He found that communication is 55% nonverbal, 38% vocal, and 7% words only.
3.) Thinking
Where does thinking come into it?
Thinking helps us to define and organise experiences, plan, learn, reflect, and create. By thinking about what you are going to do, or say, especially when presenting will make you feel better and allow you to be more successful.
This point brings me nicely to the last of part 1.
4.) Your message
Why is this important and how does it follow on from thinking?
Thinking about what you are going to say and planning it will help to ensure your message is clear and concise. If you have thought about what you are going to say, you’re less likely to get tongue-tied or stuck on what to say next. You can also ensure your message is clear, so the people listening will understand your message. Keeping your message concise will keep your audience enthused.
What other benefits come from this?
- You will be more likely to get your audience’s attention.
- The audience will learn a key message from what you are saying.
- They will trust you and understand you.
- You will get an increase in engagement.
Who knew so much went into how we communicate and what people interpret from our communication?
Try to think of the first four points from this article when you’re next communicating with people, whether this is on a personal or business level.
By Keye Oduneye @ Keye.online
