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| It's easy to misunderstand the communication of others |
Preventing Misunderstandings with Friends, Family, and at the Workplace
One of the most important skills we can learn, especially when entering the job market are ways to prevent misunderstandings.
As a speech coach I am frequently asked to advise people on how to prevent misunderstanding at the workplace.
It is So Easy to be Misunderstood
It's easy to misinterpret the communication that others may be sending to us. And especially today when our society includes so many cultures. Each culture has a way of communicating and those who are different can very easily misinterpret a message.
But that's not the point. Even those within our own culture may send a text, an e mail, phone call or face to face, and if we are not careful, we may formulate a conclusion before getting all the information or the intention of the speaker.
Preventing Misunderstandings
Has anyone ever conveyed a message to you, and you immediately became disturbed by it, or thought the other person crazy or bizarre? It happens every day since we need to remember that the way we interpret a message is based on our past experiences, and not necessarily what is being communicated. It is very easy to jump to conclusions.
To Truly Understand One Another
Whenever we are in a communication situation where we may form an immediate conclusion, whether negative or positive, it would be wise to remember to ASK QUESTIONS for clarification.
The only way to truly understand a message is to confirm it. Questions such as:
1. Would you specifically tell me what you mean by that?
2. Would you be more specific about what you just said?
3, Are you saying that you _________________________?
Ask Questions to Prevent Misunderstandings
Since most of us are opinionated, and may formulate conclusions before we obtain enough facts, we must question the other communication partner to assure we have understood them correctly. In that way we can prevent misunderstandings and strengthen relatonships.
Moshe Mark Ittleman is a speech language pathologist who has helped people with speaking difficulties for over 40 years. He also provides group seminars in communication strengthening and works with professional and aspiring speakers who wish to present with impact.
You may contact us for more information or to schedule a get acquainted phone call.
