Techniques for effective communicationPosted by Nick Niesen on October 26th, 2010 Anna is Gina?s senior producer for a lifestyle show; lately Anna seems to be distracted, the quality of her work has declined and Gina wants to know what the problem is. In the workplace, people devote around 80% of their time in an interpersonal situation. Studies have shown that most of the problems that arise in the workplace are rooted in poor communications. As Anna?s superior, Gina can make use of the following techniques for effective communication to discover what caused the decline in Anna?s performance: Identify the issue and focus on obtaining information relevant to the issue. ?Anna, during the past two weeks I noticed that we?ve fallen behind schedule. What can we do to keep up with our deadlines?? Phrase your questions to be open-ended; open-ended questions invite discussion while leading questions convey an expected answer. ?I was wondering because we have been working together for 10 years and this is the first time we experienced any delay. Why the change?? Effective communication includes nonverbal language; to encourage dialogue, make eye contact and maintain an open expression. Other nonverbal forms of communication that encourages dialogue include nodding your head as if in agreement or in acknowledgement of what the other is saying; smiling, refrain from crossing your arms or legs, and lean a little toward the person you are talking to. Paraphrase the information you have received to reassure the person that not only did you listen to her but you understand her and her position as well.
Listen to other people?s concerns. People need to be heard just like you do. More importantly, take the initiative to share in other people?s feelings. Always remember that what others may not mean the way we think they mean it. Our values, beliefs and judgments may have altered the meaning of what someone has said. Always allow for the possibility that our impression of what someone has said may not be true. Focus on common interests rather than differences. This will help you direct your energy to promoting the common interest and making everyone happier, and will also help you avoid frustration. Be aware when you impinge on someone?s space. Personal space is very important for most people. When you impinge on their space try to ask them respectfully. Tell them the reason you have to impinge on their space.
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