Communication

Just the Basics

Non-Verbal Communication

Now you can TALK!

Tell me how you felt during the experiment…

Interesting Facts 93% of all communication is non-verbal! We communicate non-verbally through:

– Body Language– Eye Contact– Facial Expressions– Gestures– Posture– Dress and Appearance / Smell

That leaves only 7% of our message that is understood through words. What are you really saying when you communicate?

What About Verbal Communication? We need to make the most out of that 7%! We all choose to communicate in two

ways: Constructive and Destructive Constructive =To Build (Positive) Destructive =To Destroy (Negative) What house are YOU living in?

Constructive Communication Giving positive or encouraging messages Sending clear, concise messages Keeping the confidences of other people Using tact: (communicating something

sensitive without hurting or offending) Asking Questions Being honest and open Speaking with respect Being a good listener

Destructive Communication Insults, harassment, teasing Threatening Lying, blaming, accusing “You-Messages” Swearing Sarcasm (When a person says one message, but

nonverbal communication and tone of voice says another)

Gossip Topping Not listening

Effective Listening Skills Stop talking!! Pay attention Look and act like

you are interested Remove distractions Ask questions Don’t offer advice

unless it’s asked for Use appropriate

body language Maintain eye contact

Communication Practice You communicate differently with

different people. Let’s practice! In your table groups, communicate the

following:1. Event

2. Influence

3. Personal Quality

4. Compliment

Levels of Communication Level 1: Superficial

– Makes up the majority of our communication, “Small Talk”, talk about the weather, school, home, food, etc.

Level 2: Personal– Deeper communication

involving the sharing of beliefs, values, feelings and opinions.

Level 3: Validating– Communication

reinforcing people’s feelings about themselves and others.

What Happened?

Superficial

Personal

Validating

Event

Influence

Personal Quality

Compliment

Why Did It Get More Difficult To Communicate?

There is personal RISK

Sharing something that means something to you!

Risk of betrayal

Things to Think About!

Relationships are built on communication!

Relationships cannot survive without communication on a personal and validating level!

Relationships are WORTH the risk!