STEPS TO EFFECTIVE INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION
Human relations is the cornerstone of effective communication. Human relations looks at how people act…behavior, and what they say. It includes considering the “total person”. This means that individuals are more than their immediate identifiable roles. A teacher or business executive may also be recognized as a parent, sibling, or best friend. Human relations is important because it effects behavior of others. Thus, it is strongly associated with effective communication. We spend about 70 to 80 percent of our waking hours in some type of communication, according to various studies. It’s not very difficult to understand that effective communication is a valuable tool to positive interpersonal relations. Listening is an essential and most utilized communication skill. Through the communication process - a decoder who receives a message from the sender (encoder), has a greater opportunity to successfully analyze messages sent when actively listening!
Generally speaking, people want to be listened to and to be UNDERSTOOD!! Bad listeners will be avoided! A great portion of what we hear, we hear imprecisely, Yes, approximately 75% of what is heard is forgotten. Debatable or not, many of us can attest that listening requires a committed. One must first commit to intentional…purposeful listening. Usually the intent or commitment to actively listen is influenced by trust, credibility, and even emotional barriers. Human relations are complex; It’s not just common sense. If it were true then conflict would not exist. Conflict exist in relations due to lack of win-win situations being created. That means needs are not being satisfied…objectives not achieved. If you find that you are on the end of not being understood…seek to understand others. Good listeners postpone evaluation of a message until they take time to actually listen, and reflect on what is heard. This cause for paraphrasing, asking questions and giving feedback. Feedback entails additional exchange - confirmations and in turn new message sending is created. Here are steps to effective interpersonal communication:
STEP 1…DEVELOP A RAPPORT - How are you today? I’m doing well, thanks.
STEP 2…STATE THE COMMUNICATION OBJECTIVES OR EXPECTATIONS. (Examples) Ted, I have some files that I’d like you to check. Please look for missing observation sheets, including those that are incomplete. Ok, Which files should I check?
STEP 3…TRANSMIT THE MESSAGE - Here are (16) files each having a post note attached. Please check not only for a missing or incomplete observation sheet, but please read each note attached for additional information. I understand, but it’s 12 noon now. I am scheduled for team meeting at this time. Is it ok to get started after I return? Oooh that’s right! By all means…do that first. Thanks for reminding me.
STEP 4…CHECK UNDERSTANDING - I want to make sure I clearly explained what I needed…OR say, I would like to go over the instructions with you so we’re on the same page. Is that ok with you? Not a problem. I was hoping you would do so, because I did need clarification. Thanks!
STEP 5…GET A COMMITTMENT (IF NECESSARY) AND FOLLOW UP - Chandra, so you agree to switch schedules with me? That is…work for me on Saturday, which includes leading my group, then I’ll work your schedule on Monday. Ok, that’s fine! I will get the appropriate documentation form so we both can sign off on our agreement.
When you follow these steps in the communication process, there’s a good chance the goal of human relations to create win-win situations is enhanced. Like playing a game of throw-n-catch the ball; Back and forth activity. Effective interpersonal communication takes effort and care. You have to recognized it’s importance and value. Likewise…you should be aware that what seemly looks like a simple human relations interaction, or sometimes even viewed as game…is much more. Effective communication is powerful. It’s like fresh flowing water; Streaming, clear, channeled, and directional. Did I make myself clear? Hope so!
—by Eartha L DeYampert, MSA, BBA
Senior Consultant, DeYampert CC Brand Consulting, LLC
-Your comments are welcomed-