Building Your House of Communication
Whether you’re sitting at home doing virtual Zoom calls with your colleagues, back at the office standing six feet away from everyone, or a combination of the two, communication is still the core component in any relationship.
In an increasingly virtual world, too often communication is happening behind a keyboard or through our phones. While most people will state face-to-face communication still trumps these methods, 70% of millennials also say that that type of communication isn’t really necessary creating a wide gap between generations. Technology will continue to be a part of our world, making it essential that we navigate the ins-and-outs of effectual communication. So, how can we merge the difference in generations and still create meaningful, authentic communication that fosters real relationships?
Think about any kind of relationship you have. Strong communication is essential for those relationships to be successful. In an argument, disagreement, discussion for new ideas, meeting new business clients, or even ordering food, meaningful communication makes you feel more empowered and joyous. The main thing is that communication, the effective ones, make us happier individuals. So, what are the steps of significant communication that creates lasting relationships?
Here are some of the building blocks of communication we’ll be exploring:
Be a storyteller. Use your own story, your own experiences to connect with those around you. Your ability to speak your truth and relate to others through storytelling is essential.
Be deliberate with your body language. Having body language that conveys that you are open and receptive to what other people are saying will not only enhance what you’re actually saying but open the door to a stronger connection.
Be a question-asker. Too often, people don’t want to ask questions for how they will be perceived. Questions create new pathways for understanding and allow for an open, honest dialogue to happen.
And finally -
4. Be okay with the silence. When there are lulls in a conversation, use those to absorb what the other person is saying. Moments of silence when speaking are really a time of reflection and shows the other person that you are involved in the conversation.
Communication is the core of strong, powerful, and authentic relationships. Analyze those relationships around you and explore these building blocks.
Want to know how More Than A Meal can help you start your house of communication? Check out our “Why Us” page here!