Communication occurs every day in virtually every situation. Learning how to be an effective communicator takes time, practice, patience and unselfishness. Improving interpersonal communication can help relationships, help resolve conflict and help you understand and empathize with others. Paying attention to and working on these skills is a talent that can be mastered, just like riding a bike or playing the guitar.
Be an Active Listener
When people talk to each other, they often spend time too much time hearing and not enough time listening, according to the University of Colorado. Active listening is one of the most underutilized communication skills. It involves not only hearing what the other person is saying but making an attempt to empathize with her point of view. Being an active listener can help open up the lines of communication by creating trust. Most people want someone to listen to their concerns. If you can be that person, you have a greater chance of having an impact through your other communication skills.
Seek First to Understand
Communication is often a selfish activity. You want others to know how you feel in order to get what you want. True interpersonal communication involves two people interacting to come to a compromise, solution or understanding. If you put your feelings aside in favor of the other person in the conversation, you have a greater chance of having your feelings heard as well. Being unselfish in the conversation takes patience and discipline, but in the end it can help open up the lines of communication and create trust--an essential attribute to effective communication.
Pay Attention to Nonverbal Communication
Something you say can be taken the wrong way simply based on your facial expressions, posture or hand movements. You have the ability to say a lot with your face and body. Pay attention to your body language. For example, crossed arms are usually seen as an attitude of defiance, anger or opposition. If you're trying to win someone to your cause, sit at eye level or below to show that you're not out to dominate them or the conversation. Be aware of your facial expressions and how you're sitting and using your hands. This can prevent misunderstandings and miscommunications.
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