“I broke up with John. We just can’t communicate anymore.”

“Office Communication system – computers, telephones, printers”

“Scientists study communication among ants and dolphins.”

COMMUNICATION“… the process of human beings

responding to the symbolic behavior of other persons.”

(Adler & Rodman, 2003, p.2)

TYPES OF COMMUNICATION

Intrapersonal CommunicationDyadic/Interpersonal CommunicationSmall group CommunicationPublic CommunicationMass Communication

Why do you need communication skills training?

Physical Needs – healthIdentity Needs – who am I?Social Needs – relax, have fun, belongPractical Needs – get what you want

# A survey of 400 employers identified “communication skills” as the top characteristic that employer seek in job candidates. More important than: technical competence, work experience, and academic background.

# A survey of 500 U.S. business stated that 90% personnel officials regards communication skills to be necessary for success in twenty-first century.

(Adler & Rodman, 2003)

COMMUNICATION MODEL

                                                                       

 

What do you need to be effective communicators?

Presenting ideas clearly in wordsBody language – non verbal behaviorsActive listeningResponding appropriately Seek common ground

What communication skills do you need to know?

Assertiveness skillsRapport-building skillsMaking a Speech SkillsGroup SkillsPresentation SkillsNegotiation Skills (not covered)Deal-making Skills (not covered)

COMMUNICATION COMPETENCE

There is no ‘ideal’ way to communicateCompetence is situationalCompetence is relationalCompetence can be learned

Characteristics of Competent Communicators

Know a wide range of behaviors Have the ability to choose the most appropriate behaviorsHave the skills to perform the behaviorsAble to take other’s perspective/empathyAble to analyze the behaviors of othersAble to self-monitor Have commitment to the relationship

Misconceptions about Communication

Communication does not always require complete understandingCommunication is not always a good thingNo single person or event causes another reactionCommunication will not solve all problemsMeaning rest in people, not wordsCommunication is not simpleMore communication is not always better