Communicating Effectively

Because we have conversations every day, we can take the art of communication for granted. While communication can be easy – if we understand and follow a few simple principles when it really counts – most of us still tend to do it in a way that leaves a lot to be desired.

Communication skills have an impact on almost every area of our lives. How successfully we communicate with others ultimately impacts on such things as our success, our self esteem, the contribution we make at work and to our community and even our health.

The dictionary defines communication as “the imparting or exchange of information, ideas or feelings between two or more people”. At a simple level this does not appear to be a difficult task. However, knowing when the parties involved have really communicated successfully is not as simple. 

This one day workshop builds upon an Australian developed self assessment instrument exploring seven categories that contribute to effective communication.

Empathising looks at the extent to which you think about the perspectives and feelings that other people may have when they communicate with you and how much you adjust your style to account for them - “how well do you create a climate of warmth and sincerity in which people feel that they can communicate their thoughts to you and that you will listen?”

Receiving looks at how well you listen to, and successfully process other people’s messages (both verbal and non-verbal) before you respond - “how attentive or empathetic are your listening habits in ensuring that you’ve fully appreciated the sender’s communication?”

Clarifying looks at the extent to which you use careful and incisive questioning techniques to ensure you successfully translate the words and actions of the other party - “how well do you gently question and probe the other person in conversation or discussion, in order to ensure that you accurately interpret their message?”

Understanding looks at the extent to which you make sense of what you see and hear in order to fully engage in a conversation and respond intelligently according to the circumstances - “how well do you reflectively process information as people are speaking, to understand the key aspects of what is being communicated and how you might respond?”

Relating non-verbal clues looks at the extent to which you watch body language and assess tone of voice to appreciate the complete communication message - “how well do you assess people’s feelings and meaning by looking between and beyond the spoken words that you hear?”

Feedback giving and receiving looks at the extent to which you are able to successfully offer constructive feedback and to accept direct feedback from others - “how capable are you of offering candid feedback in a constructive or helpful way, and how open are you to accepting coaching or guiding communication from others?”

Transmitting your message looks at the extent to which you use a range of communication methods and means to get your message across to others successfully - “how well do you ensure that the transmission of information that is important to you is communicated in language that is clear, concise and consistent?”

This workshop includes a personalised profile and a comprehensive workbook to reinforce what you learn during the day. As a public workshop morning and afternoon tea and lunch is also provided.

For information on customised in-house workshops contact david@activetd.com.au.