Despite being more articulate and better listener’s women
are wrongly perceived as being either too pushy, or too soft, two aggressive or
overly accommodating in their communication styles. Women also complain of
being interrupted in speech and criticized for being emotional in their
approach. Women tend to show greater
consideration for the opinion of others mistaken for lack of assertiveness.
Women who talk tough are labeled as bossy and domineering. Striking
a fine balance between the two extremes can be a challenge.
Tips to help women
to communicate effectively.
TALK STRAIGHT AND
BE DIRECT
More hesitant to ask directly what they want when compared
to men.
Women generally adopt a round about way of asking but
hinting or sarcasm seldom gets the message across. It can result in a lot of
frustration on both sides.
Avoid sugar coating and be straight forward & honest in
your criticism.
When you enunciate and make your statements emphatic rather
than questioning you sound clear, convincing and in control.
USE ASSERTIVE
GESTURES
Good eye contact, a confident posture and communication
style will help in generating better effect/impact.
Don’t let others rile you with interruptions. Simply say “Could
you please let me complete? “Or “I am not finished yet “…. And continue
speaking.
SMILING
Women tend to smile a lot while conversing which is perceived
as inappropriate.
Avoid giggling or using a smile to avoid sarcasm or when
nervous.
A smile is best used to send across a positive message and
reinforce what you are saying.
SUPPORT YOUR
COMMUNICATIONS WITH FACTS
Women are prone to add disclaimers to their statements by
using words such as “ifs” and “buts”.
Avoid using vague language, not completing the sentence,
tempering statements with phrases like, “I feel & apologizing for your
comments” these can undermine your credibility.
Use goal oriented language and support your opinions with
sound data & facts.
WATCH OUT FOR
VOLUME
Women speak in much softer tone.
Measured speech & a moderate pitch that is neither
shrill nor too soft will help in holding the attention of audience/other
person.
Good communication skills not only make you feel good also
create the confidence and credibility to succeed in the workplace.
now this particular article would have come in very handy about this time last year...These easy to implement techniques can help to get the message across, but in communication, listening is the other half of a healthy dialogue.
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