The Four Steps to the Communication Process

Whether you’re a Mom or Dad trying to explain to your thirteen year old why he or she can’t go to the unsupervised sleepover, even if there is going to be only one keg and JoJo’s mother said it was ok, or you’re the CEO of a major corporation trying to explain to your management team what needs to be done to increase production, communication is the key.

The challenge is that talking is not necessarily communicating. There are many barriers that can prevent the sender from conveying the needed message to his or her receiver.

Here are four steps to effective communication:

Attention – The sender must be aware that there are many disturbances and distractions that can interrupt the receiver’s concentration. Phone calls that need to be returned, memos, what am I wearing out Friday night to the dance, text messages that are coming in. The competition for attention is fierce. The sender must keep the message interesting, informative and to the point as to not lose the listeners attention.
2.     Understanding - Comprehending the message is the key to understanding the message. Many times we want to ask “Do you understand what I’m saying” this question is almost always going to solicit a yes response, many times when the message is not truly understood. A better question is “Explain to me what you understand about our conversation” this way the listener has a chance to repeat what was said in their words and the sender can assess whether or not they have conveyed the message correctly.
3.     Acceptance – When the receiver is willing to comply with the message, acceptance occurs. It is not always easy to get acceptance in the truest form. Many times the receiver will say they are ok with the message but walk away indifferent. Reading body language and listening are critical for the sender to assure that the receiver is in compliance with what the message is.
4.     Action – The final step in the communication process is action. The action must be taken based on the message for the communication to be successful. Follow-up and feedback should take place at this time. Remember, the communication is never complete until the action is carried out.

Talk is one thing communication is quite another. Effective communication is the key to successful relationships, business and parenting.

 

Good Selling

 Bob