Effective communication is important for sharing information, motivating others, and building relationships. Verbal communication accounts for only 8% of the message conveyed, while vocal tones make up 37% and body language 55%. Poor communication can result from not listening well, having preconceived ideas, or a lack of clarity. It causes issues like lower productivity, mistakes, and damaged relationships. Basic principles of good communication include understanding that everything we do communicates, the way a message is delivered impacts how it is received, and communication is reciprocal. Giving and receiving information respectfully through clear, concise messages and active listening are keys to effective communication.

1. Developing Effective Communication Skills Developing Effective Communication Skills

2. We communicate to…… Get information Motivate Cheat Praise Make arrangements Give advice Sell Greet Abuse Etc

3. Verbal, vocal and visual Vocal : 37% The voice that we convey Visual : 55 % Our body language Communication Verbal : 8% The message that we deliver

4. Causes of Communication Difficulties: Not explaining priorities or goals properly Not listening Not understanding fully and fail to ask questions Mind made up, preconceived ideas Lack of information and knowledge

5. Causes of Communication Difficulties: Not understanding others’ needs Not thinking clearly, jumping to conclusions Bad mood Failure to explore alternatives

6. Communication failures can cause….. Loss of business Mistakes, inefficiencies Lowered productivity Poor coordination and cooperation Damaged personal or company image Frustration, hostility

7. Communication failures can cause….. Dissatisfaction with others Lowered morale Loss of team spirit High employee turnover Conflict and arguments Drop in self esteem and confidence Loss of friendship

8. Basic Communication Principles Everything we do is communication The way we begin our message often determines the outcome of the communication The way message is delivered always effects the way message is received

9. Basic Communication Principles The real communication is the message received, not the message intended Communication is two way street – we have to give as well as gather

10. Communication Trilogy Give good information Gather good information Mutual respect

11. Give Good Information Six C of giving good information Clear Concise Courteous Complete Correct Concrete

12. Gather Good Information with your EARS E – explore by asking questions A – affirm to show you’re listening R – reflect your understanding S – silence, listen some more

13. Benefits of Active Listening It forces people to listen attentively to others It avoids misunderstandings, as people have to confirm that they do really understand what another person has said It tends to open people up, to get them to say more

14. Good Habits of Effective Listeners Looking at the speaker in order to observe body language and pick up subtle nuances of speech Asking questions Giving speakers time to articulate their thoughts Letting people finish what they are saying before giving their opinion Remaining poised, calm, and emotionally controlled Looking alert and interested Responding with nods and ‘uh-uhms’.

15. When receiving/listening feedback Listen, don’t resist Keep calm and keep breathing Let your body language show you are receptive Ask questions to make sure you’ve understood Don’t be overly sensitive , self protective or cavalier Receiving feedback

16. Thank you Thank you