The Basic Communication Skills

 

Communication Skill

How communication works

Communication competence is the ability to decide which is the most effective and productive way to exchange information, depending upon circumstances and the situation you find yourself in. Being competent also means that you can do so without making the other party lose face.

To achieve that competence we will begin with the basic communication skills, and the tools you have to use to master them; how to make sure the message is presented clearly so that it can be understood; how to listen effectively; and how to respond to the person being communicated with.

For communication to lead to successful results, the messages that are sent must be carefully thought out before they are presented to make sure that they actually reflect organizational needs, wants, goals, and desires; in other words the organization’s mission and vision.

Underlying effective communication skills are seven important elements that are crucial for promoting excellence:

  1. creative insight,

  2. sensitivity,

  3. vision,

  4. versatility,

  5. focus,

  6. patience.

 

These elements collectively include the following:

            The focus there is on verbal communication; using language, either spoken or printed. Regardless of the form the message takes, you must make sure that:

  1. You completely understand the message coming in;
  2. You avoid being judgmental while the message is being delivered;
  3. You shape the message going out to make sure that it, too, is understood;
  4. You keep the messages—incoming and outgoing—focused and on topic.

 

For further treatment see Communication Skill

main point:

Asking questions

Do not be judgmental  , lest…

Encouraging Openness

Communicating Credibility    

Building a Climate of Trust

Behaviors that Endanger Trust

Encouraging Openness  

Effective and Poor Listening

Becoming a Better Listener

Guidelines for Providing Feedback

      Four Basic Steps for Resolving Conflict

      Timing and Other Hints for managing conflicts

      Guidelines for Effective Listening During a Conflict

Addressing Resistance

 

See also Motivation   Factors that may block the flow of information

Other resources

The reporting skill handbook