Communications

Communications is the critical element in all personal and professional relationships. There are many ideas on what constitutes effective communications. I think that everyone agrees that effective communications entails a two way interchange of ideas with speech being one of the key forms of communication. Our focus in this discussion is the verbal two way interchange of ideas. We also want to focus on being effective and generating a positive result.

There are many ways to be effective in communications. The results can be catastrophic and effective or can be positive and effective. The choice is in the delivery and the desired results.

Example 1: If one chooses to be effective in drawing attention to oneself in communicating a message, then an outward burst of energy vocally and perhaps in physical actions is an easy method of being effective in being heard. However, this form of effectiveness seldom results in a positive outcome and seldom receives a positive reaction from the receiving party.

Example 2: If one chooses to have others consider their comments as being relevant to any given situation or worthy of hearing or acknowledgement then a different approach must be taken to communications. In this situation a person must be lucid and able to speak in a form that others will take the time to listen as well attempt to understand what is being said.

To generate positive and effective communications, you must understand yourself and know your audience. Communications means sending and receiving a message. To be effective, you deliver the right message by knowing how the other party is going to receive your communication.

There are three considerations for effective communications. First know what level of detail is expected by the persons involved. People have different expectations when receiving information. Second, know the level of strictness required for the discussion. By this we mean do you discuss the item in a formal business manner or do you mix personal and informal conversation to relax the situation. And the third item is to remember to listen. Half of all communications is listening. Make sure you use up your opportunity effectively.