Check out the latest Course. What are some ways to communicate effectively? The word communication comes from the Latin word 'communicare' meaning 'to share'. Communication is the process whereby people share information and ideas and become aware of each other's viewpoint.

Communication requires a 'sender' or 'cause' that starts the communication, as well as a 'receiver' or 'effect' that receives the communication. When we communicate we often communicate verbally and nonverbally.

Verbal Communication

Words

Nonverbal Communication

Voice:

Tone Tempo Volume

Body language:

Gestures Posture Facial expression Breathing

Some people say that we cannot not communicate, and that we are always in communication with our surrounding environment. Communication effectiveness determines how successfully we can navigate life and its many challenges.

The less flexible we are communicating, the more challenges we encounter and the fewer results we get with the people we communicate with in our work relationships or at home. Communication is the key to fulfilled relationships, effective work strategies, and a balanced lifestyle.

Communication works through intention and attention.

Intention

Knowing why you initiate the communication
Being clear on the outcome of your communication
Consciously setting an intention rather than reacting from old belief structures

Attention

Being aware of your own inner state or emotions
Making sure the other person is attentive to your communication
Paying attention to the state of the other person

There are some communication skills that can help you increase your communication

1. Establishing Rapport

Rapport is a fundamental element to an effective communication. Rapport is defined as a relationship based on mutual trust and respect. In establishing rapport choose to focus on similarities, as this helps to create harmony and greater cooperation and alignment in the communication.

2. State Changes & Information Gathering

Effective communication requires your ability to use your senses to gather information and to detect state changes and shifts in the other person. You can become skilled in noticing changes in facial expression, breathing, or other nonverbal cues like voice tone, and this will help you become more attuned to the needs of the specific communication. The skill of noticing state changes and recognizing if a person is receptive or resisting the communication can make all the difference in communicating well and acknowledging and respecting what the other person is communicating on several levels.

3. Mindful Listening

A valuable skill to develop is the ability to listen without judgment and mindfully to another person's views, experiences, and ideas. It truly helps to open the communication and to listen deeply to the many gifts another person can share in a communication. Listening mindfully means listening with "our cup empty", meaning we allow space to the other person, without imposing all our judgments and previous experiences on the communication. It is a commitment to honouring and valuing someone else with appreciation for their unique view and learnings.

4. Presence

Learning to be present in your communication is an essential way to improve your communication. Stay present to the other person, and avoid multitasking while speaking with someone. It is important to honour the space and moment, and let go of whatever you are doing at the moment to hear the person. The less present you are the more you miss the ability to establish rapport, notice changes and listen fully. Being present is also helping you to be focused and avoid misunderstandings and interpretations of what the other person might have said or didn't say.

What are some ways you found helpful in communicating effectively with someone?

Human Development and Communication Course

Live, Interactive WebClasses with Nicole Koch

I am feeling very happy to announce that I will be offering a series of live Webinars on communication and human development coming in the fall. The course will offer you 16 Webinars, and they are available in 4 segments. You can choose to participate in a segment or attend all 16 classes.
Here are the 4 core classes:

Course 1: Communication and Contribution
Course 2: Intention and Alignment
Course 3: Core Values
Course 4: Triggers and Habits

To register e-mail me at nicole[at]mandalamind[dot]org. I would be happy if you could pass this on to people who might be interested and check out Courses to learn more.

Thank you for your help and support.