Is It Possible to Avoid Miscommunication?

Via

Have you ever tried to have a conversation with someone and it turns into an argument, and at the end, it turns out you were both talk about something completely different?

Of course you have.  It's called miscommunication and it happens to almost everyone.  Although I'm not old enough to call myself wise, yet, I have come across a few things to avoid miscommunication.  It is possible to avoid it.

First, keep it simple.  If you're trying to get a point across to someone, don't use every big word you know.  Cut down on the "smart words" and stick to laymen's terms.

Second, be kind.  It's taken me a long time to learn this one.  When you're in an argument, it's really difficult to keep a clear mind and be polite, but it's necessary.  If you're trying to get someone to understand you, they're not going to respond to a rude attitude.

Third, listen.  This one relates to my last post.  Listening is the best part of a conversation.  Hear the other person out because, odds are, you're not hearing what they have to say if there's a miscommunication.

Fourth, don't jump to conclusions.  Making assumptions will almost always get you in trouble.  If you think something is true, but you aren't sure, just ask instead of coming up with your own answer.  Chances are, you're wrong in your assumption.

Fifth, pay attention to nonverbal cues.  Nonverbal communication is almost as important as verbal communication.  Watch for the signs.

Sixth, while you're speaking, stop occasionally and make sure the other person is following.  You may have made a statement that the other person didn't understand, but you're speaking too quickly for them to ask questions.  Every once in a while stop and make sure they understand what you've just said.

Those are only a few, but they're pretty important.


Interesting link of the day: Barriers to Effective Communication.