How to Improve Your Communication Skills

When conversing with your family, friends or peers, remember to be a great listener and an articulate communicator. When we find ourselves emotional, it can be difficult to communicate how we are feeling, what the problem is and how to resolve the issue. Below are a few tips on how to successfully communicate.

Be Present

Whether you are talking or are listening, try to stay on topic and don’t let your mind wander, especially when resolving a conflict. A person in distress, whether that’s you or the person you’re communicating with, needs to feel secure in order to regain composure and resolution. Also, showing interest in the conversation will encourage communication in the future.

Do Not Interrupt

When someone is speaking to you, do not interrupt them. In addition to following manners, interrupting someone could make them feel belittled and could discourage them from sharing news with you in the future. The person speaking may have important news you need to hear that will affect you or someone you care about.

Do Not Assume

Assuming you know where the conversation is going could lead you to giving advice that was not needed, and it makes the person talking feel you are not listening to them. For example, if your child says they are having trouble at school and you don’t ask them to elaborate, you could miss the opportunity to help your child.

Stay on Topic

Do not make the conversation about you if it started about the other person. Politely wait until that conversation has ended to start a new conversation about you.

Show Compassion

You don’t know what a person is or has gone through, so show compassion when conversing with them. Everyone’s life experiences are different and showing compassion can create a positive space for a quality conversation.

For more help with communication skills, contact Mercy EAP at (319) 398-6575.