By: Eileen Guo
Regardless of whether you’re communicating with a teacher, a boss, or a colleague, it’s imperative to avoid confusion and misunderstandings. After all, confusion and misunderstanding just leads to more confusion and misunderstandings; here are 7 communication tactics you should start using today:
- Always know “why”
Before initiating a conversation, think to yourself, what do I want to accomplish here? This way you stay more focused and avoid getting sidetracked.
- Be clear on your expectations
When it comes to communication, you want to be crystal clear on your expectations so that you avoid any miscommunication. Avoid texting shortcuts such as emojis, jargon and regional terms. It may make sense to you but not the other individual.
- Communicate facts electronically but emotions in person
When it comes to highly emotional content, consider that it is better to be delivered face-to-face or, at the very least, by telephone or online conferencing. It may be a bit more work for you, but is better for the individual you are speaking with.
- Don’t dominate the conversations
This actually applies to both in-person conversations and back-and-forth electronic communication. This simply means that you should listen more than you talk. This not only keeps the conversation flowing; it’s also an effective way to receive information.
- Keep it simple and concise
Instead of contributing to the information overload, keep your communications as simple and concise as possible. Cut right to the chase and don’t ramble on.
- Pause to calm down
Let’s say that you’re frustrated or aggravated by an employee or a colleague. Sometimes it’s best to wait until you’ve cooled down to communicate with them.
