Everyone has experienced a communication meltdown. For some people, it can take a lot more time and effort to recover from a breakdown in communication than it would to avoid one in the first place.
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Research suggests three things you can do to avoid communication breakdowns.
1. BE PRESENT (REALLY): Given our busy schedules and the many messages and emails, sometimes we are not present with the people in front of us. To help stay present in a meeting or conversation, turn away from your computer and put your phone into airplane mode. Even better, leave your phone at your desk. If you have a moment or two before the meeting, rather than trying to send a few additional emails, meditate or do some calming breathing exercises.
2. LISTEN MORE: Be genuinely curious and interested in what is being said, even if initially you’re not. Pay attention to cues: Does he person spend a lot of time on a particular point? Does she get more animated at specific junctures and less at others? Listening more and with curiosity provides valuable input on how you may frame your response and navigate the conversation. From this place of actively listening, your conversation will move forward more constructively.
3. BE OPEN: Communication involves the exchange of viewpoints — sometimes opposing positions. Unless you open your mind to another’s perspective, common ground can be tough to find. And finding common ground requires us to listen in order to really consider someone’s position. Being open-minded at times may require you to be open to being proven wrong. As someone is speaking, notice: Are you already thinking about your rebuttal? Or have you already interrupted?
