EXPRESSING YOURSELF CLEARLY

Communication touches every aspect of what we do in any given day.  The problem starts with an approach.  Usually people are so focused on delivering the message that they do not think about the personality, gender or culture of the receiver when composing our thoughts and transmitting them.

People usually approached others and choose words based on their personal life experience and expect the receiver to understand.  This sometime leaves us frustrated when the receiver ‘don’t get it’.  Some people tend to filter and ‘listen’ to the response base on their personal interpretation, thus often not actually hearing the message being passed.

It’s always the case where we were left wondering why a person is being difficult.  We really thought that we are making perfect sense and clear in words and delivery.  This situation of belief and perception becomes a full-blown conflict between parties based on the inability to communicate.  The whole point of communication is to express ideas in a clear, concise and easily understood manner to a variety of audiences.

 

Solutions to improve communication approach:

1. be open to feedback

Focus on:

·         getting the message across

·         being understood

·         tone used

·         perception of others

·         body language

 

2. gauge the receiver’s natural style

Focus on:

·         building relationships and familiarity

3. watch receiver’s body language
4. look out for cultural cues
5. respect opinions
6. tailor conversation to the individual
• learn to switch style for each person to communicate effectively

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Learn how to express yourself clearly

The Star Monday, 25 March 2013