8 Common Communication Mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes, but communication mistakes can have serious, long-lasting repercussions. They might lead to disgruntled customers, lost sales, or a tarnished reputation.
Knowing how to communicate effectively is crucial. To avoid certain behaviors and activities, it is also crucial to be aware of what not to do:
1) Interrupting the other person while conversing
When you interrupt someone, what does that say about you? What I have to say is more significant than what you have to say, it states. Not exactly a kind message, is it? It conveys the message:
“I’m more important than you.”
2) Not revising your writing
Grammar, tone, and spelling errors can give the impression that you are careless. It is crucial to double-check all of your communications before sending them as a result.
Always proofread your work and look up any words you’re unsure of in a dictionary. You can also try reading your work aloud will help you understand it better.
3) Using the same strategy for everyone
The process of communication is two-way. So, there is no “one size fits all” approach. When communicating with a group, you may need to take into account several different strategies to make sure that everyone understands what you are trying to say.
4) Avoiding Tough Discussions
We all know some conversations get a little difficult!
But, you will eventually have to provide unfavorable feedback. For instance, you might discover that a small issue you “let go” of quickly becomes a major issue.
The secret to handling challenging conversations is preparation.
To feel confident in both your words and your body language, you might want to practice your conversation in advance.
5) Not Responding, Just Reacting
Have you ever yelled at a coworker out of frustration or replied to an email in a snappy manner without giving it much thought? If so, you most likely responded emotionally rather than calmly.
Such an emotional response could harm your reputation. People may become upset by your strong emotions and think you lack emotional intelligence and self-control.
6) Having unfavorable or uninterested body language.
Actions speak louder than words. Body language makes up 90% of the meaning of communication. Body language includes eye contact, but it only makes up a small portion of it.
What is your body posture? How are you positioned? Is your body language screaming, “I don’t care what you’re saying,” or are you showing interest by leaning in toward the other person? Is your head tilted? These all communicate powerful messages!
7) Forming judgments before fully understanding the message
It is the worst thing to do!
You’ve probably given someone the side-eye while thinking, “Oh, I don’t even have to hear the rest of this; I already know what they’re going to say.” Or, you might mentally complete the sentences of the other person.
But, you should not do that! People don’t like it when someone assumes what they are going to say.
8) Taking for granted that your message has been received
Always take the time to make sure your message has been understood.
For instance, if you send out an email, you might encourage recipients to reply or ask questions if they don’t understand all of your messages.
Or, if you gave a presentation, schedule time for people to discuss your main points or schedule a question-and-answer period in the end.
It’s important to solicit feedback from the other person!
I hope that you don’t repeat these mistakes!
Also, you can go ahead and add any relevant point in the comment section!
Till then..
Stay Awesome. Stay Productive.
– Divas Gupta