INTRODUCTION TO COMMUNICATION SKILLS

1. Introduction to communication skills

Communication (Latin communicatio – message) (hereafter, both terms will be used synonymously in the text) is the most important element of human interaction. It is the way we express ourselves, understand others, and are understood. By communicating with others, we share thoughts, feelings, ideas, and information. Communication also helps establish relationships that enable us to achieve our goals and improve our lives. It is essential not only in personal but also in professional life. The ability to communicate effectively helps resolve conflicts, overcome challenges, and build a collaborative network that can lead to success both at work and in social settings. Communication allows us to maintain relationships, make new friends, and contribute to the well-being of society as a whole. Thus, communication is an inseparable part of human interaction, whose importance is irreplaceable.

1.1. Importance and relevance of communication

The necessity of communication is evident in various areas and levels of life and manifests broadly. The physical need for communication has been scientifically substantiated. The presence or absence of communication affects our physical health. Medical research has shown that socially isolated populations are more likely to get sick and die, making it clear that communication is essential for human existence.

Humans have a need for identity, and through the communication process, we perceive who we are. This understanding of identity is only possible through interaction with others and observing their reactions. The communication process satisfies three primary identity needs: belonging (to formal and informal groups), control (the need to influence others), and attachment (the need for respect).

Communication skills are the abilities we use to share information, ideas, or feelings with others. They are important because they help us connect with people, understand each other, and work together effectively. Good communication makes it easier to solve problems, avoid misunderstandings, and build strong relationships at work and in everyday life.

Why are they important?

At work good communication helps teams work together, reduces mistakes, and improves productivity. For example, when you explain your ideas clearly, others can understand and act on them.

In life communication helps you build trust with friends, family, and colleagues. It makes it easier to express your feelings, share ideas, and solve disagreements.

Practical assignment 1.1. Watch the video, listen, and decide if communication is one of the most important elements in both, business and life? Does it help foster a sense of belonging within a team, maintain motivation, and influence the emotional climate? Why do some brands or companies lose connection with their target audience or employees? How can one create a strong brand, and what role does communication play in this process?

Practical assignment 1.2. Are you communicative? Answer the following questions honestly. There are no right or wrong answers! This test is designed to help you reflect on your communication habits and identify areas for improvement.

After taking the test, you might be wondering, "How can I become a better communicator?" Here are some tips and techniques to help you build on your strengths and address areas for improvement:

Communication is a skill that you can always refine and improve. By practicing active listening, speaking clearly, and managing your emotions, you will not only communicate better but also build stronger, more positive relationships in all areas of your life. Remember - communication is not just about talking - it’s about connecting.

Practical assignment 1.3. Explore key communication skills with flipping cards. This activity promotes engagement by linking visual cues with critical concepts, enabling you to better understand and remember each skill.

What are the benefits of good communication? 

Good communication means sharing your thoughts in a way that others can easily understand. It’s not just about talking; it’s about making sure people know what you mean. Clear and simple communication helps everyone work better together, avoid problems, and build strong relationships.

Why it matters?

Clear communication helps everything go smoothly. Whether it’s talking to your boss, a friend, or a co-worker, speaking simply and listening carefully can solve problems and build trust. Remember: communication isn’t just about talking—it’s about understanding each other.

1.2. Different types of communication: verbal, non-verbal, written, and digital

Excellent communication skills are essential for establishing and maintaining personal and professional relationships. They help avoid misunderstandings, improve team performance, and foster empathy and understanding among people. Enhancing communication skills enables individuals to become better listeners, more effective mediators in conflict situations, and more confident in expressing their thoughts and feelings.

Communication is categorized into the following types:

•       Intrapersonal communication (within oneself),

•       Interpersonal communication (between individuals),

•       Person-to-group communication,

•       Mass communication,

•       Verbal and non-verbal communication,

•       Written and non-written communication,

•       Personal and professional communication.

There are four main types of communication: verbal, non-verbal, written, and digital.

When you know which type to use, you can share your message better and avoid confusion.

Watch this video to know about the styles of communication (passive, aggressive and assertive).

AMAZE: communication styles  

Source: Amaze.Africa @YouTube channel  

Key features of 4 styles of communication: 

• Passive communication (avoids expressing personal needs, opinions, or feelings, prioritizes others' needs over their own, often says "yes" even when they mean "no.", uses soft or hesitant speech, poor eye contact and closed body language);
• Aggressive communication (expresses thoughts and feelings forcefully, often at the expense of others, uses loud or demanding tones, interrupts or dominates conversations, poor listening skills; disregards others' opinions or needs, direct and confrontational body language (e.g., pointing, leaning forward aggressively);
• Assertive communication (clearly and confidently expresses thoughts, needs, and feelings while respecting others, balances personal rights with the rights of others, uses "I" statements to communicate without blaming, maintains steady, calm tones and good eye contact, open and positive body language).

Assertive communication is the best and healthiest way to talk to others because it helps people understand each other, shows respect for everyone, and makes it easier to work together.

Practical assignment 1.4. Use virtual flashcards to reinforce your knowledge about the communication process. https://quizlet.com/842426426/flashcards?funnelUUID=f99ebbcb-73a7-4f62-995b-89deddf3bcc0

Practical assignment 1.5. Refine your knowledge via test:

1.3. Effective and Ineffective Communication

Effective communication consists of three key elements: the sender, the receiver, and the understood message. Information is transmitted from the sender to the receiver, who interprets, understands, and draws conclusions before providing feedback to the sender. Simply transmitting information effectively does not guarantee effective communication. For communication to be truly effective, the receiver must correctly interpret, understand, and provide appropriate feedback on the received information.

Communication barriers are physical and psychological obstacles that hinder or disrupt the efficient exchange of information. Barriers in social communication arise due to the human nature of the process and environmental influences. These barriers may include:

•       Personal barriers,

•       Semantic barriers,

•       Physical barriers,

•       Sociocultural barriers, and Organizational barriers.

For more, read here:

https://www.consultingbees.com/komunikacija-organizacijoje-veiklos-efektyvumas/ https://inkagency.lt/5-filmai-apie-komunikacija-kuriuos-turi-pamatyti/  

Practical assignment 1.6. Watch the video 

1.4. How communication impacts teamwork, conflict resolution, and productivity

Communication is the foundation of success in the workplace.  It influences teamwork, resolves conflicts, and boosts productivity:

Teamwork:

Conflict resolution:

Productivity:

Clear and effective communication helps teams work better together, resolves disagreements calmly, and makes tasks easier and faster to complete. When communication is strong, workplaces are more productive, less stressful, and better at solving problems.

Watch this video: "Effective communication skills in the workplace"

Source: Self-ImprovementVault @YouTube channel

Practical assignment 1.7. Read the question, try to answer it, then turn the card over to see the answer.