Effective Communication Between Friends

Friendship expert, Irene Levine, Ph.D., suggests that "many people forgo the effort to communicate effectively with friends because they focus on career and family." Learning to communicate well with friends helps cement relationships.

Making Friends a Priority

According to Jan Yager, Ph.D., in a Today Show interview, make friends a priority. Dr. Yager further explains in her book, "Friendshifts," how important effective communication is to maintaining any friendship, as well as learning how to navigate the ups and downs of long-term relationships.
Penn State researchers, Peter DeScioli and Robert Kurzban, found that humans tend to prioritize their friendships according to how much they receive from each person as well as by how much those individuals reciprocate the value of the relationship. "Perceived similarity, familiarity, and benefits" are also ways in which ideal friend partnering is determined and ranked, further initiating the allocation of either quality time and effort or destructive neglect.

Learning to Communicate

"Poor communication skills can damage all your relationships. This can affect your performance at work, your self-confidence and your physical health," says Wallace Huey, co-founder of Trans4Mind.
In "Passion, Love and Connection," relationship coaches, Susie and Otto Collins reveal that people often want to know how to talk to people. "If you need better communication between the two of you, learn some tips and practice them. The trick is to practice what will bring you closer to what you want," they said.

Communication Tips

In the article "Skills Lead to Fellowship," communication trainer Debra Fine suggests that "not everyone places importance on conversational skills," which makes it difficult to find and keep friends. Having good eye contact and using a person's name during conversation are the first things she suggests for any form of personal communication. Being genuinely interested in what the person is saying builds a stronger bond.
Offer understanding to friends when they mention an issue or problem. "Jumping in with unsolicited advice happens annoyingly often," Dr.Yager says in her book. Give your two cents worth only when your friend asks for it, she advises.

Rebuilding Communication After a Fight

Marilee Adams, Ph.D., in "Change Your Questions Change Your Life," suggests asking good questions to resolve conflict. Being present and listening also allows others to share their point of view.

Other Considerations

William B. Gudykunst, author of "Bridging Differences: Effective Intergroup Communication," says that because we cannot truly know the exact thoughts and intentions of others, there is room for misinterpretation while communicating. Our viewpoint and pre-planned objectives can also shape the outcome of communication. Ask yourself questions about how you relay thoughts and feelings; this aids in self-discovery and helps you be a more effective communicator.