Saturday, January 22, 2011

Effective Communication 101

Effective communication is an important skill which benefits us in a practical and personal sense. It allows a message to be delivered and received accurately. When this happens, ideas and thoughts are exchanged at an optimal level. This in turn prevents misunderstandings and can strengthen the relationship between the parties involved.

“Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus” was a book written by Dr John Gray first published in 1992. One of the main topics discussed in the book was the different communication styles the two genders had. He also suggested models in which the two genders can use to improve their relationship. It comes to no surprise that the book turned out to be a best-seller for the following 6 years.

The importance of effective communication in the example above can be extracted and applied to other general relationships as well.

Personally, I believe that effective communication can help me most on a professional level. As I aspire to be in a managerial position later on after starting my career, such a skill would be essential to have. A leader who communicates effectively exudes confidence and is greatly respected and trusted.


However, a leader who does not might be perceived as uncertain and confused. Such a leader is often disrespected by his or her followers.

On a personal level, this skill may improve my relationship with loved ones. By communicating effectively, such actions cultivate a sense of trust and understanding between one another.

Therefore, I believe the skill of effectively communicating is important for me if I intend to progress my relationship with people on a professional and personal level in the future. Especially the most important relationship of all in my opinion, marriage. =)

Sources: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Men_Are_from_Mars,_Women_Are_from_Venus