Mastering the Art of Communication Skills
Introduction:
Communication is a key element in any human activity. Communication is a learned
skill. However, while most people are born with the physical ability to talk, not all
can communicate well unless they make special efforts to develop and refine this
communication skill. Very often, we take the ease with which we communicate with
each other for granted, so much so that we sometimes forget how complex the
communication process actually is. Communication takes place when we are
supposedly at the same level of understanding and comprehension as other
interlocutors. Common forms of communication include speaking, writing, gestures,
touch, using pictures, and broadcasting. Communication is therefore not what is said,
whether verbally or non-verbally, but what is understood.
What is communication?
Communication is a word derived from the Latin word communis or commūnicāre,
which means ‘to make common’ or ‘to share’. Communication is the act of conveying
intended meaning to another person through the use of mutually understood signs
and language. Communication is the art of transmitting information, ideas, and
attitudes from one person to another.
Communication is the process of meaningful interaction among human beings. The
basic steps of communication are: the forming of communicative intent, message
composition, message encoding, transmission of signal, reception of signal,
message decoding, and finally the interpretation of the message by the recipient.
Communication is simply the act of transferring information from one place to
another. When you call or talk verbally to your friend, then you are said to be communicating with your friend.
Characteristics of Communication:
The characteristics of communication include:
1. Communication is a process: Communication is a 2 way process which involves;
listening to others (Receiving) message, Asserting/Expressing (Sending).
2. Communication is a dynamic: it is ever-changing depending on the variables at
play.
3. Communication is a complex process.
4. Communication is a two-way process of reaching mutual understanding, in
which participants not only exchange (encode-decode) information but also
create and share meaning.
5. Communication involves the sharing of information using a code.
6. Communication occurs between people and sometimes animals
7. Communication is irreversible: once one has communicated something, it
cannot be recalled.
8. Communication is a system
9. Communication must have the elements of communication: Source, receiver,
channel, message, noise, and feedback.
10. Communication can be verbal/non-verbal or visual.
11. Communication can be accidental, especially in non-verbal
Functions of communication
Human beings communicate for various reasons. Here are some of the reasons why
we must communicate:
1. To change in behavior
2. To influence others
3. To express our thoughts and emotions through words & actions.
4. It is a tool for controlling and motivating people.
5. It is a social and emotional process.
6. Communication for improving self-confidence
7. Entertain
8. Educate
9. Establish relationships
10. Inform
11. Solve problems
12. Make orders
13. Give directions
Forms of Communicating
Verbal Communication
All forms of communication can be categorized as either verbal or nonverbal. Both verbal and nonverbal communication can be subdivided into either vocal or non-
vocal. Verbal communication involves using speech to exchange information with
others. We usually communicate verbally in face-to-face conversations, such as;
meetings, interviews, conferences, speeches, phone calls, e.t.c. Much of the
communication that takes place between people is both verbal and non-verbal; that
is, it is based on language and gestures.
Verbal communication of the vocal category includes spoken language, while non-
Vocal verbal communication involves written communication as well as communication that is transmitted through transmitted through sign language, finger spelling,
Braille, or other similar alternatives to verbal language.
Paraverbal/paralinguistic/ paralanguage features
Paralinguistic or paralanguage features are the aspects of spoken communication
that do not involve words. They add emphasis or shades of meaning to what people
say. Paralinguistic features accompany verbal communication and are the vocal
signals beyond the basic verbal message. Paralinguistic elements in a person’s
speech convey meaning beyond the words and grammar used. Examples of
paralinguistic features include pitch, rate, quality of voice, and amplitude. Other
forms of paralanguage can also include laughter or imitative speech. Prosody, which
is the rhythm, pattern, stress, rate, volume, inflection, and intonation of a person’s
speech, is also a form of paralanguage.
People express meaning not just in what they say but in the way they say it. The
paralinguistic features employed by a speaker provide hints to the meaning,
communicate the speaker’s attitudes, and convey their emotions. Paralinguistic
features also alert the listener as to how to interpret the message. Many of these
paralinguistic features are culturally coded and inherent in verbal communication,
often at a subconscious level.
Non-Verbal
Non-verbal communication is a type of communication that employs gestures and
body language. The term “body language” is sometimes used to denote non-verbal
communications. “Body Language” is the communication of personal feelings,
emotions, attitudes, and thoughts through body movements such as gestures,
postures, facial expressions, touch, smell, walking styles, and positions among These movements can be done either consciously or involuntarily; more often, they ‘happen’ subconsciously, and are accompanied, or not accompanied, by
words. There are basically three elements in any face-to-face communication. These three
Elements account differently for the meaning of the message:
Words account for 7%
Tone of voice accounts for 38% and
Body language accounts for 55% of the message.
Our body language and tone of voice should be consistent with the words we use.
This is only possible when we say what we mean to say and say it rightly. Otherwise,
we can confuse people and reduce the prospect of getting our message across to
be understood. Non-verbal communication can lead to misunderstandings,
communication failure, and even conflicts if the interlocutors are careless.
Non-verbal communication includes:
(P)OSTURES & GESTURES
(E)YE CONTACT
(O)RIENTATION
(P)RESENTATION
(L)OOKS
(E) PRESSURE OF EMOTION
Body language and kinesics are based on the behavioral patterns of non-verbal cues
communication. Body language can actually contradict verbal communications and
reveal our inner feelings about any particular person or topic, either intentionally or
unintentionally.
Mastering the Art of Communication
(P)OSTURES & GESTURES
(E)YE CONTACT
(O)RIENTATION
(P)RESENTATION
(L)OOKS
(E) PRESSURE OF EMOTION
Mastering the Art of Communication: Understanding Body Language and Nonverbal CuesEffective communication is the foundation of any successful relationship, be it personal or professional. While verbal communication is essential, nonverbal cues and body language play a significant role in conveying our thoughts, emotions, and intentions. In this article, we will explore the importance of body language and nonverbal cues in communication, and provide tips on how to master the art of nonverbal communication.
Objectives:
- Understand the importance of body language and nonverbal cues in communication
- Learn how to use positive body language to build rapport and trust
- Develop skills to recognize and interpret nonverbal cues
- Improve communication skills by using nonverbal cues effectively
- Importance and Purpose Body language and nonverbal cues are essential components of communication:
- They can convey emotions, attitudes, and intentions, and can either reinforce or contradict verbal messages.
- Positive body language can help build trust, rapport, and credibility, while negative body language can lead to misunderstandings and conflict.
Profitable Earnings and Potential:
-Mastering the art of nonverbal communication can have numerous benefits, including:
- Improved relationships and communication skills
- Increased confidence and self-esteem
- Enhanced professional and personal reputation
- Better negotiation and persuasion skills
Pros and Cons:
- Improved communication and relationships
- Increased confidence and self-esteem
- Enhanced professional and personal reputation
- Better negotiation and persuasion skills
Cons:
- Misinterpretation of nonverbal cues can lead to misunderstandings
- Cultural differences can affect the interpretation of nonverbal cues
- Some people may be more skilled at hiding their true emotions and intentions
Tips for Mastering Nonverbal Communication- Maintain eye contact: Eye contact is essential for building trust and rapport.
- Use positive body language: Use open and confident body language, such as uncrossing your arms and standing up straight.
- Be aware of your tone: Tone of voice can convey emotions and attitudes.
- Use nonverbal cues to convey emotions: Use facial expressions, gestures, and posture to convey emotions and intentions.
Conclusion:
-Mastering the art of nonverbal communication is essential for effective communication. By understanding the importance of body language and nonverbal cues and developing skills to recognize and interpret them, you can improve your communication skills and build stronger relationships.
Summary:
- Body language and nonverbal cues are essential components of communication.
- Positive body language can help build trust, rapport, and credibility.
- Mastering nonverbal communication can have numerous benefits, including improved relationships and increased confidence.
Suggestions:
- Practice self-awareness: Be aware of your own body language and nonverbal cues.
- Observe others: Observe how others use body language and nonverbal cues.
- Develop your skills: Develop your skills in recognizing and interpreting nonverbal cues.
Professional Pieces of Advice :
- Be Authentic: Be genuine and authentic in your communication.
- Be aware of cultural differences: Be aware of cultural differences and their impact on nonverbal communication.
- Use nonverbal cues effectively: Use nonverbal cues to convey emotions and intentions effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is the importance of body language in communication?:
- Body language is essential for conveying emotions, attitudes, and intentions.
- How can I improve my nonverbal communication skills?:
- Practice self-awareness, observe others, and develop your skills in recognizing and interpreting nonverbal cues.
- What are some common nonverbal cues?:
- Common nonverbal cues include facial expressions, gestures, posture, and eye contact.
Thank you for reading! We hope this article has provided valuable insights and practical tips on mastering the art of nonverbal communication.
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