So you would consider your self a competent and confident communicator? You know your communication DNA, and can recognize the preferences of someone else. You can then adapt to meet their needs in conversation.
That's great, I sincerely applaud you, and this is no mean feat. Well done! I am sure everyone in your world appreciates your wonderful skills. If you do not know this and would like to you can learn your Communication DNA here.
But wait there’s more; unfortunately in life and in communication we never arrive. There is always more to understand, learn and grow into.
My top 5 next level communication skills are;
- Communicating under stress
Stress actually causes most people to become really poor communicators. The way through this is to know yourself and your stress signs so you can work through them effectively. Then you need to be able to work through someone else’s stress signs
- Communicating during conflict
You may be confident to communicate through conflict but what about the person or team you are working with? What if they are avoiding the conflict or are fearful, what do you do then?
- Giving encouragement
It is critical that you understand the needs of the person you are providing encouragement to. If you don't you may actually do more damage. For example most people give encouragement in the way they prefer – ie you love to be noticed, to be recognized, all the bells and whistles. What if the person you are giving encouragement to is a private person who prefers a quiet one on one? You may just have mortified them.
- Rebuilding trust
If trust has been broken it can be tricky to get back. It is also something that cannot be forced but must be invited. The best thing you can do is create a healthy environment where you may be invited to build trust again in that relationship
- Communicating in leadership
Communication is an essential skill in leadership. It is necessary to understand your own Communication style and then how to bring out the best in others, how to inspire, to motivate, encourage, teach, based on the individual needs of those you are leading.
If you would like to develop any of these next level communication skills, reach out to see if we can be of assistance. You can also check out our online courses for your ongoing personal development. For support to learn more about your next level skills and how to get the most out of your communication
The best place to start is to learn How to Harness Your Strengths as a Communicator.
This short yet Powerful course will teach you your personal communication strengths, needs, challenging, stress response and much more.
Until next time, Care, Connect and be a Conscious Communicator
Let’s change the world we live in one conversation at a time.