June is Effective Communications Month

June is effective communications month. So, are you ready to enhance your skills for better business and personal relationships? In the first place, it is essential to communicate both in the workplace and in personal relationships.

June is Effective Communications Month – Development Skills

So, are you ready to be a better communicator? Of course, communication is important in almost everything.

From the time we are born, each of us learns to communicate with our parents. When we are crying; we are letting our parents know we need something.

At the same time, as we develop; we learn how to express ourselves. But, how many children grow up without the right type of guidance? Since many kids grow up in families without love; they mimic the actions and words of their parents.

When someone is in school, it is essential they express themselves to their peers and teachers. Consequently, if a kid doesn’t develop good communication skills; this tends to impact teens and adults.

So, communication is made up of writing, verbal and non-verbal communication, and listening.

Are you ready to put these skills to work?

June is Effective Communications Month – Social Media Impacts on Communication

When I was growing up; there weren’t mobile devices. However, now almost everyone has one. In fact, little kids have cell phones at a young age.

Though social media has made it easier to interact with people all over the world; it has changed the way we interact with people. For instance, how many people like to connect with their friends through text messages or email? Since I have experienced this firsthand; I find it frustrating that people I consider a friend send me long messages via text instead of returning my phone call.

In my opinion, I believe everyone should remember how to socialize and participate in different activities.

Now, when people meet someone for the first time; they typically are going on social media checking out someone’s profile and seeing what they do. Although social media has helped in many situations, it is also hurting individuals learning about each other.

In many countries and parts of the world social media has manifested and turned into protests.

Social Media – Positive Impact on Communication

When social media first came out; it was a great way to increase communication with people everywhere. In fact, people in different businesses were able to instantly answer someone in the blink of an eye.

In addition, many people involved in various causes or personal events were able to get their message out quicker.

Also, social media helps bring people together who have the same interests.

Check out my Like Love Hate Social Media Relationship post for my personal experience with different platforms.

Social Media – Negative Impact on Communication

When social media came to the forefront; it was a way to communicate. However, how many of us use vocabulary that isn’t in the dictionary? Well, I know I have.

So, how many people text and use emojis and abbreviations; such as k and u?

In my opinion, one of the biggest downfalls of social media is everyone is buried in their phone or computer all the time.

When you are dining out; how many people do you see checking their cell phone regularly? Yup, I’m guilty – I have done this too.

Sadly, in-person conversations are disappearing.

Since the pandemic, more people are working remotely; and staying home at night or over the weekend to watch something on YouTube, TikTok. and read something on Facebook or Twitter?

Because more individuals are alone; it is decreasing their skills on how to talk to people in person.

Moreover, there has been a lot of misinformation and misunderstandings.

June is Effective Communications Month – How to be Effective to Communicate

When it comes to conversations you have on a regular basis; think about how you connect with someone.

One of the best ways to use clarity is when you are speaking, To be better at this comes from experience and practice. For instance:

• Talk to yourself!
• Be confident!
• Speak to a mirror!
• Write something and read it – does it sound good to you?
• Be clear!
• Be concise!

Finally, when you gain clarity to what you are trying to say; you are much more likely to get your message across.

Best Ways to Improve your Communication Skills

So, if you are looking to improve your communication skills; there are a few things you should do.

1. Listen  – How many people talk over each other? It is essential to listen to what someone is saying. Also, when you are listening; it opens the door to begin a conversation.
2. We each have 2 ears and a mouth; and should use them to listen and speak.
3. When you are talking; try and speak clearly about what you want to say to someone.
4. Your body language matters. If you have your hands crossed across your chest; you appear closed off.
5. Have good eye contact.
6. Hence, it is essential to use the right language. For instance, if you are speaking to someone important; don’t use abbreviations. Write things out. Recently, my Web Developer sent me a text message and I had to ask him what it meant.
7. Ask questions. When you ask someone something; you are learning something about them and gaining insight.
8. Moreover, have a healthy approach to life.

Other Ways to Improve your Communication Skills

1. Indeed, each person may receive a different message from abbreviations. So, take the time to spell it out.
2. When someone calls you; respond within a proper time period. One of my rules is to always respond within 24 hours unless I’m on vacation, a family emergency, a death or a medical situation.
3. Pick up the phone – Don’t be lazy about phoning someone. Even if you don’t feel much like talking; call the person back and let them know you only have a few minutes.
4. Make time for someone.
5. Think before you say something – “Words left unspoken never come back to haunt you”.
6. Have a positive attitude! Indeed, everyone has something going on either personally or professionally.  Put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Would you want someone to ignore you?
7. Treat people fairly.
8. Remain calm under pressure.
9. Smile – Finally, smiling is a way to let people know you are positive. Also, it is a way to say “Hello”.

In summary, everyone has different ways to express themselves. However, it is  important to be open and communicate properly to let people know you are paying attention and open to dialogue.

Of course, great dialogue comes from choosing the right words. In the same way, people who are good communicators don’t have one way conversations.

As always, I welcome your comments.