Communication is the process of transmitting, receiving and interpreting information. It is the exchange of ideas, opinions, information and thoughts. It is also a way of expressing our emotions and feelings. All human interactions and relationships are based on and rely on communication.
Each time we communicate we have the intention of making the receiver to get the information as intended. We expect them to understand what we mean and this will be called effective communication. Good communication skills help us to pass the message correctly.
There are many ways of communicating which include verbal and non-verbal communication. Communication skills are required for effective conveyance of messages from the sender to the receiver. These skills are techniques and abilities we use to convey information efficiently. Good communication skills help to preserve peace and harmony.
Knowing exactly how to pass a message is a great advantage no matter how negative the message is. If you know how to express yourself properly then you can get many people to understand you and also listen to you.
Verbal Communication Skills
This is one very important skill everybody must have and this world would be a better place. Verbal communication involves speaking or talking, the use of language and also writing. It could be one-way or two-way depending on the scenario. Face-to-face conversations, phone calls and meetings are all examples of two-way verbal communication because people talk and interact, sharing ideas. Emails are an example of written communication and proper language use is of great importance.
The way you use your words and registers affect the outcome of a conversation, be it verbal or written. Politeness remains a great tool for effective and efficient communication. Keep everything simple and clear and be as respectful as possible. There are many factors to consider when communicating verbally or in written form.
We all come from different backgrounds and cultures and our beliefs are different. So, when communicating you should consider these differences to avoid offending others or even provoking them into violence. Avoiding offensive words is crucial and the way you speak should suit your audience. The way you talk to or with a child is totally different from the way you talk to an adult.
The tone of your voice spices everything too. A high voice may make you sound angry and aggressive and a very low tone will make you sound boring and uninteresting. So, you should know which tone to use where. Proper selection of words during a conversation accompanied by a proper voice tone can calm an angry person down.
For verbal communication to be effective you have to be a good listener. Listen to understand not to answer. From understanding, you get the right and polite answer and you learn as well. Give others the turn to speak when having a conversation without you interrupting them. Show interest in what they are talking about. If it is a conflict, show that you are concerned and you want it resolved too.
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