Interpersonal communication is an important skill for every aspect of your life, from personal relationships to business. Communication skills can make the difference in a happy family life, close friendships and business promotions. You should be able to ask questions and listen rather than always be the one doing the talking according to Communicate Now. Monster.com claims that the ability to express feelings, thoughts and abilities can help you achieve your goals and make you more valuable.
Respect
Respect is one of the most important aspects of interpersonal communication. This applies to all relationships whether they involve romance, friendship, marriage, business or sports. In all situations and relationships, you need to show respect towards others in order to gain their respect in return.
Listen and Show Interest
Spend some time listening to what the other person has to say. In order for you to get your point across, you should understand the other person's position. If you don't understand what the other person is trying to say, let the other person know by asking him to repeat what he said or ask him questions. Avoid thinking ahead to what you want to say while the other person is speaking advises Monster.com.
You should be sincerely interested in the other person. Empathetic listening will give the other person the feeling that you sincerely care. Ask questions to show your interest. When you have a different point of view, be open for discussion and allow the other person to state his points. This will make him more likely to listen to what you have to say. Avoid interruption or turning the conversation back to you.
Positive Body Language
As you make your points, you should express positive body language. Avoid fidgeting or toe-tapping. Make eye contact and smile when appropriate. Doing so will show your interest in the other person and make him more comfortable. Show enthusiasm in an appropriate way. Be assertive but not aggressive and too pushy.
Remember and Learn
After the conversation, remember what was said and how the other person reacted. Focus on the key points in the future. If the conversation didn't go well, try again later with a different angle and approach.
Presenting Ideas
Penn State advises using humor while communicating, but avoid off-color jokes, offensive humor or poking fun at someone. A touch of humor can warm up the other person and make the interaction more agreeable.
Exercise patience. If you are working on a business team, send reminders of deadlines and spell out the details. If decisions are made in haste, allow some backtracking but learn from your mistakes.
Electronic Communication
After writing an electronic letter, let it rest for a few minutes then come back to it and read it again before sending it. Often, electronic communication misses the tone you're looking for and people can misunderstand your meaning. If you are writing an informal email, add emoticons or tags to let the other person know when you are showing humor, surprise, frustration or friendliness since your voice inflection can't be heard. Avoid writing an email when you are angry.
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