What is the single biggest factor in the success of a relationship of any kind? Effective communication is the most critical component in determining the success of relationships. Relationships can only succeed if it has effective and well-understood communication skills.
To be a successful communicator, it is important to understand how communication works. My example today will focus on various forms of vocal communication. Nonverbal communication provides other challenges, but these same basic principles apply.
Vocal Communication Defined
First, let’s break down communication. Talking to each other in person causes the air between us to vibrate within a certain frequency range. Our ears absorb these vibrations and translate them into words. But pushing air back and forth does not mean real communication occurs.
If you speak German and I only understand English, I may hear your words, but they will have no meaning. Even if we speak the same language, there is no guarantee that we will understand each other. The words we form in our minds are always preceded by a thought (hopefully) and a reason to say them. How well we understand that attempt at communication depends on several factors.
Key Factors in Effective Vocal Communication
- Feelings associated with the words will play a big role. The type of feelings we express and how we say them can communicate much more than the words themselves.
- If you can see the person you are talking to – either in person or on video, it helps. Much of what you are saying will come from gestures and facial expressions.
- Even when both of you speak the same language, other things can make it hard for you to understand each other. Coming from different parts of the country or having a big age difference can make a difference. In each of these circumstances, the same words and phrases can have a different meaning.
True leadership in business or politics depends on effective communication concepts, and the success of personal and family relationships requires the same. But communication involves more than just words. It’s important to pay attention to feelings and movement and understand all that is being said. Each of these plays a critical role in meaningful and accurate communication.
