Mastering Effective Communication: How Understanding Your Communication Style Can Help You Succeed

Communication is a word we hear and use every day, yet it can be a complex concept to master. I found myself using this word multiple times in various settings last week, prompting me to explore the topic further. From communicating with contractors and staff internally to collaborating with clients externally, effective communication is critical in all aspects of life. In this blog post, I will share my understanding of communication and provide insights on how to communicate effectively. So, let's dive in and unravel the mysteries of effective communication!  

At its core, communication is the act of exchanging information, whether it be personal, business-related, or unrelated matters. It can be a positive or negative experience depending on the perspective of the parties involved. In today's world, we are surrounded by an overwhelming amount of information. From the moment we wake up, we are bombarded with messages and notifications from various sources. Our personal and work lives revolve heavily around communication, making it a central piece of our day-to-day activities. 

Despite the critical role that communication plays in our lives, many of us do not invest enough time, energy, and resources in becoming effective communicators. We often take communication for granted and assume that we are good at it simply because we do it every day. However, effective communication requires intentional effort and practice. It involves not just speaking but also listening, understanding, and responding in a way that creates a positive outcome for all parties involved.  

In a high school business studies course, I learned that effective communication is a two-way street. It happens when the message the sender intends to convey and the message the receiver interprets are the same. Achieving effective communication takes effort and thoughtfulness. As I recommence this journey to improve my communication skills, I realize that it is not just a professional skill but something that shapes every aspect of my life. 

Effective communication means being intentional and mindful in every interaction, whether it's with colleagues, friends, or family members. It involves understanding the audience, conveying the message clearly and concisely, and actively listening to their feedback. But communication is not just about how we present ourselves; it also involves being flexible and adaptable to others' communication styles. 

Being flexible means recognizing that not everyone communicates in the same way. Some people prefer direct communication, while others may prefer a more indirect approach. Practicing this kind of flexibility allows me to connect with others on a deeper level and promotes my overall well-being. 

Understanding your communication style is crucial for improving your communication skills. Last year, I took a free online assessment created by the Conscious Company to gain insight into my communication style at work. As someone who spends at least 40 hours per week at work, I knew that effective communication was critical to my success at work. 

The assessment revealed that my primary communication style was 'direct' with a secondary style of 'reserved.' These results didn't surprise me, but they did give me a better understanding of my strengths and weaknesses as a communicator.  

As I write about communication once again, I decided to retake the assessment to see if my style had changed. Interestingly, the results were the same as last year. This reaffirmed my communication style, and I now have a better understanding of how to communicate effectively in the workplace. 

If you're interested in learning more about your communication style, I highly recommend taking the Communication Style Assessment. This assessment will help you gain insight into your communication strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to become a more effective communicator in any setting. 

In conclusion, effective communication is a vital component of our personal and professional lives. By investing time and energy in improving our communication skills, we can build stronger relationships, improve our work performance, and achieve greater success in all aspects of our lives. So, let's commit to becoming more effective communicators, starting today.