Why do we fail in our interpersonal communication?
We all know that communication is important. In fact, the constitutive nature of communication is simple that is, any organization, relationship, and institution is a by-product of interpersonal communication. What is it? Basically, it is a process of exchanging information, ideas, and even emotional experiences between people according to Beekeeper.
Well, in every place we go through, we meet and talk to diverse people. But, have you ever wondered why your interpersonal communication with others seems to be a hard task? Check out these factors that might affect why,
Interpersonal Barriers
Who doesn’t want to achieve effective communication right? However, there are present obstacles that hinder that. In this time pandemic, we are forced to adapt to the new normal that everything is virtual. The way we interact with others is not similar to what we used to be doing pre-pandemic. The ability to interact with others virtually and even face-to-face always come with a conflict, which we called interpersonal barriers.
Tone and Attitude
In interpersonal communication, it is important that whenever we communicate let’s remember that what we say is as important as how we say it. Our tone and attitude also send signals that may add meaning to what we’re saying apart from the message itself. So, be careful whenever you deliver something to someone.
“What we say is as important as how we say it”
Outside Noise
This factor distorts the communication process. The noise is something that disrupts the decoding process of reception. Anything like poor internet connections, environmental noise, and the noise from crowds, etc. So, make sure that if you have important calls or interviews go to a place where noise can’t infiltrate.
Culture
The difference between cultures greatly affects the interpersonal communication between two or three individuals. Different cultures possess different perceptions on a certain matter. Hence, as we talk to them let us always consider how they view the world around us. Because by understanding their values and belief we can avoid potential misunderstandings.
Social Structures
Have you noticed the difference in how we talk to those who are higher than us? It’s hard to talk right? This social factor affects the communication process. Whenever we talk to them there are things we like to gatekeep because of fear of our superiors. Hence, we tend to be silent or give short responses. This influences the exchange of information and often results in miscommunication.
Improve your Interpersonal Communication
Now that you know what to avoid in the communication process. It’s also important that you are sharp with your communication skills. So here are some ways to improve it.
Practice good non-verbal gestures
Avoid any gestures that might send other meaning to the receiver of the message. So, practice eye contact, smile, and have an open body position. By this, you are open and interested to listen.
Think about the content of your message
Know about the content and intention of your message so that, you are aligned with what the other person is saying to you. In short, think always before you speak.
Practice Empathy
Understanding the feelings of those around you is an integral skill for successful interpersonal communication. Hence, practice demonstrating your ability to empathize because it builds rapport between you and others.
Ask Questions
Asking questions at the end of a conversation doesn’t equate to ineffective communication. In fact, a good communicator has good questioning skills. Why? An individual with good questioning skills is often also seen as a very good listener. So, try incorporating that when you are having a conversation.
Is interpersonal communication hard? Well, definitely yes. But now that you know what to avoid and add in your interpersonal skills be confident that you can rock any conversation with others!
