Communication skills
Using communications skills
During our work and home lives we have to communicate in different ways. However, by using different communications techniques, we can learn to take on different styles more easily.
The skills that underpin communication
- Assertiveness - The ability to clearly communicate your intentions without being aggressive or letting others impose their views on you.
- Self control - Being able to remain calm and use your emotions appropriately.
- Optimism - Keeping a positive outlook on the world, looking for solutions instead of problems, and believing that you can make things work out in the end.
- Empathy - The ability to put yourself in the shoes of the person you are speaking to; sensing how they are feeling and changing your behaviour to fit.
- Flexibility - Being able to adjust your way of thinking and talking depending on the situation.
- Reality testing - Ensuring you are looking beyond prejudice and assumption and dealing with what’s really happening. Taking the time to be open to feedback and check your facts.
- Self regard - Feeling positive about yourself and remaining confident.
[Task] We all have strengths! Jot down some of the things you are good at and some things you would like to be better at.
Developing skills
- All these things can be learned and improved. We are not stuck the way we are!
- We can all become better communicators.
- Learning specific skills can help us do this.
Last Updated on Friday, 17 December 2010 00:38
