Overview of Effective Communication
"Effective communication requires a solid understanding of the process by wich humans attempt to communicate. Communication models help us to visualize the process. Effective communication skills are valuable in all walks of life: at home, on the job and in the community. Intrapersonal communication, interpersonal communication and public speaking each offer the potential for personal and professional growth, leading to increased levels of self-confidence, sensitivity to others, and self-satisfaction" (Chase & Shamo, 2009)
The Importance of Communication
GREAT COMMUNICATORS ARE THE CATALYST TO CHANGE!
As stated in the Introduction, we all communicate, but we all can communicate better. Every day you are going to encounter a variety of situations that must be interpreted and handled differently. The more you are able to an effective communicator, the more opportunities you will have to be successful.
It is important to understand that communication is NOT just speaking. Effective communication encompasses speaking, listening, understanding and interpreting non-verbal skills, critical thinking, and much much more.
One definition of communication that I like is: "communication is the simultaneous sharing and creating of meaning through human symbolic interaction" (Seiler & Beall, 1999). As you can see, communication is NOT a one-way street, it is a process, ongoing, never-ending, and simultaneous (I am influencing you as you are influencing me). You could say that effective communication is a "journey and not a destination."
Remember, every opportunity has its roots in a relationship, and every relationship is built through effective communication? Communication is precisely the process of by which we conduct relationships, and if our communication is poor, our relationships will be poor.
Please answer one of the following questions:
1. How do you think your life will get better by being able to communicate better?
2. What does it mean to you that "communication is NOT a one-way street, it is a process, ongoing, never-ending, and simultaneous."?
One definition of communication that I like is: "communication is the simultaneous sharing and creating of meaning through human symbolic interaction" (Seiler & Beall, 1999). As you can see, communication is NOT a one-way street, it is a process, ongoing, never-ending, and simultaneous (I am influencing you as you are influencing me). You could say that effective communication is a "journey and not a destination."
Remember, every opportunity has its roots in a relationship, and every relationship is built through effective communication? Communication is precisely the process of by which we conduct relationships, and if our communication is poor, our relationships will be poor.
Please answer one of the following questions:
1. How do you think your life will get better by being able to communicate better?
2. What does it mean to you that "communication is NOT a one-way street, it is a process, ongoing, never-ending, and simultaneous."?
