Episode 25: Behind Ineffective Communication - 3 Things Most People Miss That Makes Their Communication Less Effective

In this episode, we'll talk about the three critical elements that often hinder effective communication, despite our best efforts to convey our thoughts clearly. Understanding these elements can significantly enhance how we connect with others and ensure our messages are received as intended. Get to the root cause of communication breakdowns by examining how we listen, how we create mental representations, and how we navigate challenging interactions with me. 

 

Key Takeaways: 

• The Importance of Active Listening in Communication - Many people listen only to respond, which can cause miscommunication. By focusing on our reply, we miss the full message. Remember, listening isn't just about hearing words; it's about fully engaging with the speaker and understanding both what is said and what isn't.  

• The Role of Internal Representations in Effective Communication  - When we communicate, we create mental images of what we want to say, but these images may not match how the listener understands us due to differences in experiences and emotions. Effective communication means being aware of the images we're forming with our words and making sure they are clearly understood by the listener. 

• Flexibility in Communication for Navigating Challenging Situations - Many people find it hard to stay calm and clear when communicating in emotionally charged or tough situations. This can trigger a defensive reaction and lead to poor communication. Learning to manage emotions, ask the right questions, and listen carefully can help you handle these challenges better.  

Helpful Resources: 

• The Importance of Clarifying Communication - Effective communication isn't just about speaking; it's about ensuring that what we say is accurately understood. By taking the time to clarify and check in with others, we can bridge the gap between our intentions and their understanding, leading to more successful and meaningful interactions. 

• Communication is Always a Work in Progress - Communication is often viewed as a skill that, once learned, doesn't need much more effort. However, communication is a continuous learning process, no matter how skilled or experienced we are. It involves understanding others, reading non-verbal cues, and being open to different viewpoints. 

 

Notable Highlights: 

"A lot of what we learned in our communication was implicit. It was learned by observing others and by our interactions."  

"Only 7% of language is words. The rest is conveyed through body language, tone of voice, and other non-verbal cues." 

"Communication is an ongoing learning process, no matter how much work you've done or how well you think you communicate."  

 

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Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne 

 

Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships . Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leaders and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort. 

 
See the full course breakdown and get a free preview of key modules to experience the value. Go to https://mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue and schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs