As you already know, interpersonal communication skills are extremely important. Check out, Interpersonal Communication, below, for some tips and tricks that will keep you communicating like a pro!
“Interpersonal Communication
The most effective communicators use a style that can change on each occasion and be adapted for each individual. This brings out the best in everyone, especially if you are a manager or team leader. These skills need continual practice and fine-tuning until they become a natural response which is seen by others as appropriate across a wide range of situations. So here are the top ten tips to help you:
- Be aware of your thinking – your inner dialogue. We talk to ourselves all the time, but it tends to be negative or bossy. Learn to talk to yourself positively and objectively. Remind yourself of what you want to achieve from the conversation, not what might go wrong!
- Be aware of your presence – behave assertively. For example, make eye contact; sit/stand/walk upright; be conscious of your hand gestures; use a facial expression that conveys acceptance, congruence, competence. Remember you are also a role model for others.
- Speak for yourself. Own what you say and start with “I” instead of “you” when talking about yourself, your needs, your likes, your wishes. Avoid blaming someone else in an effort to make yourself seem less needy or demanding.
- Invite disclosure from the other person by using open, not closed, questions. Open questions are more productive and usually start with “how”, “where”, “what”, “when”, “in what way”. These questions encourage the other person to think about a response and to open up a conversation with you.”
…to be continued…
Stay tuned for Part II for the rest of the tips! Contact me if your office needs legal training. Have a wonderful weekend!