How can you avoid communication pitfalls and build stronger relationships?

In my experience, adapting your own style to fit your audience can be more complex and challenging than you think. However, to truly know your audience is the only way to effectively capture their attention, and ensure your message is well received. Not only is this a key to effective communication, but by doing this, we also project a certain level of trust, likability, and influence. Knowing your audience is the best way to elevate their experience, and to provide yourself with a platform to make a lasting impact.

Navigating different communication styles has been a challenge for me. However, identifying my own style has been incredibly insightful, allowing me to adapt when I notice someone's style differs from mine. For instance, I often elaborate extensively in my explanations, both in writing and speech. When communicating with someone who prefers concise information, my verbosity could lead to frustration. Previously, I would consult a colleague to help clarify and streamline my message. Recently, I've begun employing generative AI and large language models to aid in this process. Among my preferred tools for this task are chatGPT and Claude AI.

Effective communication is a crucial skill in today's global professional world. It requires us to adapt our communication style to meet the needs, preferences, and cultural expectations of our audience. By doing so, we can ensure that our message is received and understood in the way we intended. In addition to being mindful of the communication styles of others, it is equally important to be authentic, humble, and open to feedback in our interactions. Authenticity means being true to ourselves and expressing our thoughts and ideas genuinely. It allows us to build trust and credibility with others, as they can sense when someone is being genuine or putting on a facade.

I've found researching and gathering information about your audience in advance to be tremendously beneficial. Learn about their demographics, interests, values, specific needs or challenges they may have. LinkedIn can be particularly helpful with this.

When we aim to truly understand others, not only through their words but also their context, their perspectives, and their emotional states, we develop a broader, richer comprehension of their needs and communication styles. This 'empathic listening' creates a climate of respect and trust, where others feel both understood and valued. When we seek commonality, it's as if we're creating a shared language, a mutual platform for collaboration and growth. By honing our listening skills, we create a conduit for effective, fruitful dialogue. Understanding before being understood helps us step out of our own assumptions and truly appreciate the viewpoints of others, thereby opening avenues for more constructive and meaningful conversations.

Actively listening allows you to understand others' perspectives, concerns and preferences. Pay attention to their feedback. Encourage others to share their thoughts and experiences.

In today's crazy environment of go, go, go, it feels like very few take the time to truly listen to others. We must lean in and hear what is being shared. We must watch body language and quickly respond accordingly. We must PAUSE and not talk... LISTEN. Even if it's 10 minutes, a pause can mean everything to someone who is processing "what is on the table." This type of listening creates bonding friendships and future relationships for you care enough to listen. I feel it is always good to come back with, "what I heard you say ..... Confirmation and collaboration on the content of the conversation are everything. Be clear and concise, acknowledge others feelings and truly listen to what is being said. Live in the now.

One thing I have found helpful in practicing active listening is to “embrace the pause” when I ask my colleagues and clients questions. Some of the best responses and ideas can come out when you ask a question and pause to let the person/group have time to answer. Ensuring you don’t jump to fill the “awkward” silence might be a detriment and could leave the question unanswered in incredible ways.

I think it is important to let them know up front that if they ever need you they can call or text, especially if its a candidate where you may not immediately have something or a client who just takes longer to react, its most likely I just have nothing to report, but not jumping to conclusions and texting me will remind me to update you despite my persistence that they ultimately see behind the scenes. Also note-taking, weekly check-ins, remembering small details, being empathetic and active listening are the softer skills needed as well.

I've found learning to actively listen involves being keenly observant. Often times we pay attention to those who talk the most, allowing the quieter ones to fade into the background. When we shift our attention to observing the people with the least to say its the beginning of them being seen. Notice their facial expressions and gestures. In doing so, you can hear what is being said in silence. You receive vital clues leading to clarity and connection as you engage everyone.

Imagine communication being like a soccer game. Your words are the ball, and your goal is to make sure the other person, your teammate receives the ball. Now, if you kick the ball too hard or too fast, or in the wrong direction (using big, complicated words or lots of details), your teammate might not receive it. But if you pass it to them smoothly and directly (with simple and direct language), they are more likely to receive it. And you know what's even better? When you make sure they are ready. That's like listening, making sure they understand what you're saying, and adjusting if you need to. Because, just like in soccer, communication is not about just kicking the ball, it's about making sure it reaches the other person.

Hello mister member, how are you today. May I please get your member ID. Thank you so much for verifying with us today. How may I assist you. Actively listen to what the member says. Take notes if necessary. Mr. member would like to know all of his benefits. And he needs a new ID card. You should ask Mr. member to verify his address so we can get the card to the right place. After assisting Mr. member we repeat back everything we have done so that we’re all on the same page and then we ask him if there is anything else we can do for him. When you actively listen to someone you can probably come up with answers before they even have to ask.I’m

We're trained in business to smile, be fluffy, nice, approachable and these things are all important but nothing more anoying than someone being overly happy and positive and never getting to the point. There is power in writing how you speak in real life, being direct and most importantly getting to the point.

You must always show empathy and compassion on every call you take or with anyone you speak to face-to-face. Your tone must be present so that they feel you are willing to help them. Talk to them as if you know who they are) (Even if you do not know them). If you really enjoy talking to people it is not hard to catch on to that. You have to make a connection with the person so they feel comfortable. Sometimes you just have to let them vent and get it out of your system because it is not you they are frustrated with it is the issue at hand.

I agree with this completely. It is important to ensure you use the proper platform to communicate. If someone is coming to you with a very important conversation or for feedback, the last thing you want to do is have that conversation over text. Text can be taken with a tone that is not intended. As well, a text conversation can go back and forth for what can seem like forever. Ensure that important conversations or feedback is communicated face to face either in-person or virtually, and if need be, a follow up email is sent highlighting what was discussed.

I had an old boss that had one phrase that has always stuck with me: "pick up the ******* phone!". We hide behind email and messages all too easily and however good a writer, the reader will always interpret tone, intent, intonation, etc. their own way. Too much is lost with written text. Don't misunderstand me, it has its place but there is no better communication than talking.

Asking for feedback shows you care not just about yourself but others. When working with my team mates, I often ask them questions like: Am I doing anything that causes you more work? **Leaving out info that would be helpful, sharing too much info, etc. If I have questions is there a better time in the day to ask question? **Some people are not morning people😊. Do you prefer to communicate through chat, email, phone, virtually, or in person? If you ever wonder why I do things are certain way, would you ask me? **I won't be offended This help us understand and honor each as we work together.

In my experience, being open to feedback is crucial for personal and professional growth. Constructive feedback can provide valuable insights into our strengths and areas for improvement. It is important to approach feedback with an open mind, without becoming defensive or dismissive. Instead, embrace feedback as an opportunity to learn and grow, and use it to enhance our communication skills. Being humble means recognizing that we don't have all the answers and being open to learning from others. It is important to approach communication with a mindset of curiosity and a willingness to listen and understand different perspectives. By doing so, we can foster a collaborative environment where ideas can be shared and explored.

Asking and encouraging feedback and suggestions can be helpful. This can be done through direct conversation, surveys, feedback forms. Acting upon the feedback demonstrates that you value other's opinions and committed to improvement.

Feedback is always welcome and important but be careful how you ask for it, you don't want to sound needy and self-centred. How you approach feedback is very important. Always he humble.

Lastly, I've found being open to adapting & refining my approach can go a long way in refining who I am, how I'm showing up, and how I'm building healthier, stronger relationships.

Combining empathy and respect is also key for robust relationships and communication. Empathy aids in understanding others' views, especially during conflicts. Respectful communication, encompassing politeness and active listening, fosters trust and open dialogue. This synergy fortifies relationships and minimises communication missteps.

These are my 5 thoughts on this subject: 1. Self-Awareness: The first critical step is being aware of my own communication style. 2. Audience Understanding: Understanding the communication preferences of the other person is crucial. 3. Adapting Communication Style: Based on my own style and audience understanding, I can adapt to their communication style to ensure effective interactions. 4. Using Tools for Assistance: Use AI tools such as ChatGPT and Claude AI to assist me in fine-tuning communication. 5. Continuous Improvement: The process of enhancing communication skills is ongoing.

Adaptability in communication is a powerful tool for nurturing all successful relationships and building thriving communities. By fostering empathy, understanding, and inclusivity, adaptable communication enhances collaboration, trust, and credibility. Communication promotes conflict resolution and personal growth while embracing diversity and change, leading the way for sustained success and resilience in any relationship or community. As we embrace adaptability in communication, we create supportive environments at home and at work that fosters growth and achieves common goals well into the future.