Six Steps on How to Become a Better Communicator

1)      Use open ended questions

In order to let your conversation flow, it is really useful to use the technique of asking open-ended questions. Open-ended questions often start with words such as “what”, “when”, “how”, and “why”. An example of an open-ended question is a statement such as: “So, what are some of your hobbies?”

It is best to avoid the closed-question. An example of the closed-question is “Do you like to read”, which only invokes a yes or no type of response. Nothing kills a conversation quite like a closed question, because it can only be answered with a yes or no answer. Therefore, use more open-ended questions and this will hopefully lead to more free-flowing questions.

2)      Active Listening

This is a really useful technique as it tells the other person that you’ve really listened to what they have been saying. More importantly, it also conveys to the other person that you have understood what the other person is trying to say.

Active listeners follow a conversation and are able to summarize the essence of what the other person is trying to say, guiding the conversation forward.

3)      The Cocoon

Sometimes when people are talking to us, we might find it difficult to concentrate on what they are saying. It might be because that there might be some sort of background noise, or perhaps that our mind might be elsewhere.

In order to improve on the situation, visualize a cocoon around the two of you. This will hopefully allow you to better focus on what the other person is saying,

4)      Engage with the other person

If someone else is trying to engage you in conversation, your body language is really important. Try not to continue with the task that you are already doing, don’t shout over your shoulder. Instead, what you should do is to stop whatever it is that you are doing and face the individual, and give them the time which they deserve. Remember that good communication involves engaging with the other individual.

5)      Don’t make assumptions

Do not jump to conclusions when you are in a conversation with someone. Don’t assume that you know what they are thinking or what they might feel about a particular topic. Instead, it is much better to ask them if they are ok with this or if they feel all right about that.

Take that person’s thoughts and beliefs into careful consideration and rather than projecting your own thoughts and feelings on them. Remember, don’t make assumptions.

6)      Avoid Antagonistic Sentences

An example of an antagonistic sentence is, “You’re sitting in my chair.” An antagonistic sentence can be seen as a form of attack on the other individual. Hence, it is much better to use sentences such as “Excuse me, I think you’ve taken my seat.” This is much less confrontational and which will mean that you are more likely to encounter a lot lesser conflicts in your life.

The task of becoming a becoming a better communicator is a long and difficult road. Fortunately, resources such as the Better Interpersonal Communication blog can help you become a better communicator. Interpersonal communication skills is an important part of our lives and is worth some time and effort in order to improve it. Just keep to six steps advocated above and you will be on your way to becoming a better communicator.