Effective Communication Skills
While it is an undisputable fact the communications forms one of the
essential basis of human existence, yet most individuals overlook the
need to refine their communication skills, from time-to-time. Effective
communication skills is a must whether it is individual or then
effective team communication skills.
According to the experts one can communicate effectively when
they understand the stages of interpersonal communication, which are
explained below :
The phatic stage : This is the initial exploratory stage, which
determines the course of the conversation. This begins with the
greetings and accompanying gestures such as eye contact, the smile,
etc. In a formal encounter there is more distance between the
individuals, as compared to in the case of an informal encounter. This
stage is also known as the warming up stage. There is a no meaning and
intention, but just the setting for the next level of the conversation.
The personal stage : This is the second stage in which the
individuals bring a more personal element into the conversation. During
this stage one generally brings down their social guard and begin to
interact more openly. They are ready to let the others involved in the
conversation more about themselves and the hesitation decreases.
Interpersonal interactions generally move into a third stage. Otherwise
professional interactions are generally confined to this stage.
The intimate stage : This stage is mainly meant for
conversations between friends, family and relatives, where those
involved in the conversation share a higher level of intimacy with each
other. This stage of communicating usually entails opening one's heart
and sharing rather intimate details, which is not a part of
professional conversations.
Keeping in mind these stages, one becomes more aware of how their
conversations should progress and where they need to conclude a
conversation, or extend it for that matter. Effective skills in
communication calls for awareness and attentive listening.