Effective CommunicationBy: Abdul Latif

What Is Communication?

Communication means of sending or receiving information, such as telephone lines or computers.Communications include face-to-face talking, listening to a lecture or seminar, and listening to a television programCommunication means the imparting or exchanging of information by speaking, writing, or using some other medium.

What Is Effective Communication?

Effective communication is the glue that helps you deepen your connections to others and improve teamwork, decision making, and problem solving.Effective communication takes place only when the listener clearly understands the message that the speaker intended to send.

Types of CommunicationVerbal CommunicationVerbal or oral communication uses spoken words to communicate a message. When most people think of verbal communication, they think of speaking, but listening is an equally important skill for this type of communication to be successful. Non-Verbal CommunicationNon-verbal communication includes body language, gestures, facial expressions, and even posture. Non-verbal communication sets the tone of a conversation, and can seriously undermine the message contained in your words if you are not careful to control it. For example, slouching and shrinking back in your chair during a business meeting can make you seem under-confident, which may lead people to doubt the strength of your verbal contributions.Written CommunicationWritten communication is essential for communicating complicated information, such as statistics or other data, that could not be easily communicated through speech alone. Written communication also allows information to be recorded so that it can be referred to at a later date. 

Communication Process

 Nonverbal communication shows others that you are ready to communicate effectively when you maintain eye contact, sit attentively and position your body to face the person who is speaking. Folding your arms across your chest, clenching your fists and looking downward signify that you are guarded and consequently, can hinder communication.

Examples of Effective Communication?

Why Effective Communication Is Important For Auditor?

Job Satisfaction Productivity & Efficiency Profit Motivation Organization’s Goodwill & Reputation Absenteeism Grievances Disputes Turnover

How You Can Improve Your Communication ?

Watch Your Body Language

You tell your partner you’re open to discussion but your arms are crossed; say you’re listening but haven’t looked up from your phone yet. Our non-verbal and non-written cues often reveal more than we think they do. Whether it’s how you make eye contact or how you hold yourself during a video interview, don’t forget that you’re constantly communicating even when you’re not saying a word. 

Stay Positive

How You Can Improve Your Communication ?

Maintaining a positive attitude is crucial to productive communications. Be constructive rather than negative or complaining. People shut down, effectively ending any real communication when they feel attacked or criticized.

Focus On Results

How You Can Improve Your Communication ?

It’s important to figure out what result you are after before you start the conversation. Knowing yourobjective helps you to direct the conversation and to remain on point. What are you hoping to accomplish? Are you trying to give help, resolve a conflict, or collaborate on a project or issue? Are you seekingadvice or trying to influence behavior?

Listen

How You Can Improve Your Communication ?

Eye contact is crucial. Be polite and don’t interrupt. No one likes being interrupted and though it’s naturalto want to rush in to make your point, it’s verydisrespectful of the other person’s thoughts. Try to understand the other person’s perspective.

How You Can Improve Your Communication ?

Follow Up

Be clear about what actions will be taken and establish accountability. Confirm deadlines, responsibility, and expectations. If relevant, document any agreements in writing. A clear understanding of what is supposed to happen next can help avoid a conflict later on.Always try to end your communication in a friendly manner. Reiterate your thanks and try to leave the other individual feeling understood and valued. 

How You Can Improve Your Communication ?

Notice Non-Verbal Cues

Watch body language. Lack of eye contact, distraction, or fidgeting are often signs of restlessness or impatience. Yawning or sighing are usually signs of mental or physical fatigue. When you notice these types of non-verbal signals, it’s a sign that this conversation is not going to be a productive one. Quickly wrap up the conversation, postpone the conversation, or inquire about the discomfort if your relationship allows.

How You Can Improve Your Communication ?

Write Things DownI don't understand why people pride themselves on being able to keep stuff in their heads. I like to use my brain space for creative and progressive thinking, not my to-do list. Lord knows we have enough tools to write things down. Please, please, please send a follow up email, or use Ever note, or text yourself, or dare I say it ... use pen and paper. However you do it, record takeaways from the conversation so you don't have to have it again. Oh, and I do find the act of actually writing with pen and paper helps me remember better.