The Reflection Of Effective Communication

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Our social nature demands that we seek out communication with other people. We are not

created for isolation but to communicate. We need to initiate, develop and maintain

relationships and this can be done through effective communication. To improve the

quality and quantity of communication we must improve our skills. The diagram below

shows the main traits I consider to communicate effectively at work.

Diagram 1 Effective Communication Traits

Effective

Communication

Interpersonal skills Interaction with

Others

Keeping FriendsTrust

Self Awareness

When I am communication at work, there are a few steps by which I proceed, namely:

§ Planning of message

I take my time to think what I want to say and I do not indulge in unnecessary

Adding the perspective element

means that I must be able to predict the recipient’s reaction to my message, choose

the body language and words that allows the audience to captivate the whole

message and not just part of it. Jargon and slang words should be avoided and if

there are possibilities of misunderstandings due to cultural or language barriers, I

undertake some research or seek help with others to address issues in advance.

§ Choosing the Channel

I need to choose the best channel of communication to send my message. Emails

can be used to send simple straightforward messages. In case of complex tasks, the

best channel is face to face interaction. It allows me to judge the effect of my words

and to adjust as required. Where possible I prefer using face-to face interactions.

§ Decoding and Interpreting

I make sure that I am not the only one who speaks. I also listen effectively to the

other party. I look at the person, avoid any distraction, nod to acknowledge my

understanding, allow the other person to speak without thinking what I should say

next and I do not interrupt. Empathy is helps me decode messages accurately. It

Some tips to help managers bridge any communication gap were

(Fortune 1994):

• Listen actively for the subtext of people 's words.

• Persuade rather than command.

• Target your words to your audience.

• React to content, not to people 's manner of expressing themselves.

• Let people know that criticism is welcome.

• Make your intentions clear before acting.

• Assume that people take responsibility for what they say.

Unclear communication not only results in errors and missed deadlines, but also lies at the root of many other serious workplace issues, such as low employee morale and poor job performance.

3.0 Methodology

My interpersonal skills were assessed by two different activities. One consisted of a

questionnaire which I answered. The aim was to assess how I view my interactions with

others. The second exercise was a group discussion where 15 people from my

department willingly participated to explain my interactions with others. Other

questionnaires were also used to assess my quality of friendship, self-awareness and

trust actions

4.0 Data Collection and