Communication is a two way process

In communication there is always more than one person involved. The ultimate aim of the communicator is to enact some sort of action or response from the ‘receiver’. This could be a deed, some form of emotional response or to get the receiver to tell you something as the communicator. It is therefore vital that you can imagine yourself as a ‘receiver’ if you are to be successful in your communication.

How would you feel if you were told something in a certain way?

How would you feel if you were emailed when you know that you are seeing the person shortly? Surely they could have waited until they see you?

How would you feel if the person telling or asking you something was abrupt and overpowering in their body language?

The choice of body language and words that you choose as the communicator are vital depending on the message that you are trying to send.

If you miscommunicate, or communicate in a way that causes confusion or some other emotion that you didn’t intend, there can be negative consequences.

If you are communicating face to face then watch the receiver and see how they react. Are they engaged with what you are saying? Have you checked to see if they understand you?

If you are communicating via email or over the phone what response do you get? Do you get any response?

This message is therefore brief. Communication is a two way process, and sometimes it’s best to put ourselves in the other person’s shoes before we begin saying what it is that we have to say.