Every day, we meet and interact with other people in various circumstances and in many ways. We send and receive a multitude of messages. Often, we may encounter difficulties in properly understanding the information received. What can we do to improve our communication skills? Here are a few words below.

The term „communication” is certainly well-known to you – it pertains to each of us, in virtually every area of our lives. There is no one who does not participate in this process. However, there is a huge difference between communication and effective communication. We speak of effective communication when the sender’s intention in the message is properly understood by the recipient. Of course, there are disturbances – conflicts, difficulty in understanding the other side, lack of interpersonal relationships, and other barriers. One of the errors in communication is differences in perception. Each person we communicate with is different – they have different beliefs, value systems, and life experiences. The same sentence can mean something different for each of our interlocutors. I often hear the opinion that „the training was great.” But what does that really mean? Each participant has slightly different feelings. For one, it was practical exercises, for another, the opportunity to exchange experiences, and for yet another… a tasty lunch (sic!). For one person, „good relationships with colleagues” will mean mutual courtesy, kindness, and the opportunity to have lunch together during a break in a pleasant atmosphere, while for another – meetings after work, inviting to family celebrations, or trust. It depends on the specific individual’s point of reference. Therefore, differences in perception are one of the most common obstacles to effective interpersonal communication.

We can avoid or minimize such errors when we get to know our interlocutor better or ask for clarification of the statement, or we clarify it ourselves if we are the sender of the message. Recognizing that each of us speaks and thinks in slightly different languages, has our own metaprogram (a way of filtering information), and different resources gives us the opportunity to create a shared space in which we establish a connection. This allows us to minimize communication obstacles. It becomes easier for us to achieve the goals we have set, win over people, and send a signal to our interlocutor that we accept and respect their individuality. This, in turn, enables us to establish close and trust-based relationships both in private and professional life. It becomes easier for us to resolve conflicts and control emotions because we understand that our recipient is simply different. If we are aware of this and use this knowledge, our communication takes place at a higher level, and we have a sense of real influence on the relationships we maintain and create.

Author: Karolina Nosowska, Coach and Trainer HR ACCELERATE