THINGS TO CONSIDER IN COMMUNICATION

HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH IMPACTS

BY SHILLA FLORA .M. BAPRM 42669 (22^th May)

When we talk to someone, we tend to focus on what we want to say. There's some sense in this since we want to be clear and understandable. It is possible to phrase our message and meaning perfectly, yet sometimes it is rejected, ignored or otherwise demeaned. What is the reason behind it? In many ways, timing is everything in communication. For example, if you have a great idea you want to convey it to the boss, you may get a terrible reception one day, but if you chose another day, you might get a great reception. Clearly, people are more receptive at some time compared to other time. But we tend to forget this. And then we get upset when we don't get the reactions we want. Luckily improving timing in communication isn't difficult. It involves some conscious thought and curbing impulsiveness or even curbing your enthusiasm.

Consider the other person’s state of mind, emotions, time schedule to assess whether it's a good time to talk about a particular subject. Do this beforehand. During conversations, if you get unexpected negative reactions, think about whether it's that the other person is simply not ready to hear what you have to say. Maybe it's best to continue at another time.

Communication is the back bone of all the management activities. All the functions need effective communication for appropriate results. This article highlights only one function on how communication makes an impact on building our personality and prepare students job ready. With organizations, now so open to exposure through the likes of the communication skills, it’s even more important to plan communications, especially difficult ones, carefully. We’d suggest the following:

Who; with all communications, be it written or verbal, you must think about the audience; crafting it with them in mind. Use language which they will understand and that matches your culture. Think how best to ‘sell’ what you’re saying, asking or consulting on. Examples and real life stories are a great way to bring things to life, use visualization to invoke a positive mood. Here also consider who deliver the communication will make sure it’s the right person for the job.

Why; what’s in it for the recipient and / or those who are involved?

What; what the message is about top line details.

How; what is the best channel for the message to be delivered and how will it be executed? With difficult communications we’d always recommend face to face if appropriate.

Style; should it be formal or informal? Clarity is the key. What is it you actually want to consult on and/or convey?

What if; what do you want to get from the communication? How will this be measured so people know they’re ‘there’?

When; Timing is absolutely critical. Think about the best time to deliver the message. And allow adequate time. If you need to move fast, do it.

Actions; The next steps and follow ups