"Can you hear me now?"

Have you ever been in a conversation and thought you were communicating one thing only to discover later that the person you were talking to heard something totally different? Or have you misunderstood something someone was trying to communicate to you?

So often we are more concerned about being understood and less concerned about understanding. Can you imagine a world without speech or words? Communication is the most effective tool we have in relationships and yet many of us stink at it! Are you a good communicator? If so, congratulations, you have mastered both the mouth and the ear! If you are not, don't worry, this article is for you!
  
Verbal communication is the art of speaking and listening. Speaking is not often the area many of struggle with so I will keep this portion brief. However, active listening is the area that many of us need to be reminded of, so pay close attention!

Speaking Effectively:

• Be clear and concise.
• Be courteous.
• Be coherent.

 Active listening:

• Do not just hear the words, but try understanding what is being said.
• Do not interrupt. 
• Do not allow your mind to drift when others are speaking.
• Do not formulate a response while others are talking.
• Ask questions when you do not understand
• Finally, summarize in your own words what was communicated. This shows speaker that you were listening and that you understood. 

Take the time to listen today.

Patricia Gilbert

Talking Heads Image courtesy of Google Images