SELF KNOWLEDGE
Non-verbal communication
Our behavior and personality are one aspect, but another crucial element is our attitude, demeanor, and overall non-verbal communication. In fact, our body often communicates more than our words.
Research shows that up to 55% of our communication is through body language! This means that our body language can completely alter the meaning of a sentence.
Mehrabian’s Rule is essential to understand and be aware of when training in communication.
How to Ensure Impact Through Your Body Language:
How do you come across when delivering messages to employees?
How do you present yourself in front of your boss?
What does your body language communicate when you are feeling insecure?
Being mindful of how you use body language in various situations can enhance your communication effectiveness and improve your interactions with others.
Mehrabian’s Rule
7-38-55
Assertive Communication
The Clear Giraffe
Giraffe language is assertive and based on non-violent communication. It focuses on expressing one's own needs clearly and directly.
Wolf Language is the opposite of giraffe language. When speaking wolf language, one tends to judge and accuse others, hears only what they want to hear, and struggles to stay on topic.
You need to manage both your internal and external wolves. Wolf language is aggressive and unconstructive. An internal wolf may express itself through thoughts like “Why didn’t I think of that?” or “I’m not as good as others.” An external wolf attacks by using "you" language, interrupting, asking leading questions, placing blame and shame, and sticking rigidly to one’s own principles.
Be conscious of using giraffe language. A giraffe stays on its own side of the court, bases communication on personal experiences, understands differences and feelings, and listens with empathy.
The Giraffe Communicates in “I” Language
The giraffe communicates using "I" statements and asks open-ended questions with curiosity. The giraffe separates facts from feelings and takes responsibility for the relationship and the situation. This approach is aligned with Conflict Ladder Level 1.
Instead of spending time attacking each other, finding fault, blaming, or becoming angry/disappointed because others haven’t done what was agreed upon, one can act as a “Giraffe.”
This means being clear. Articulate what you are experiencing, how it affects you, and the consequences for your own actions. Listen and take the time to understand the other person's perspective. Find solutions, work together to find a resolution based on the shared understanding of the situation.
DOUBLE - CLICK
In communication, the concept of "double-click" refers to the practice of delving deeper into a subject to gain a more thorough understanding. Just like a double-click on a computer mouse opens a file or application for closer inspection, a "double-click" in conversation involves asking follow-up questions or seeking more details to fully grasp the other person’s perspective or to clarify the context of the discussion.
Here's how to apply "double-click" in communication:
Seek Clarification: If something isn’t clear, ask for more information. For instance, “Can you explain that in more detail?” or “What do you mean by that?”
Explore Feelings: Dig deeper into emotional responses to understand them better. For example, “How did that situation make you feel?” or “What’s behind your reaction?”
Understand Impact: Inquire about the effects of a situation on the person or the outcome. For example, “How does this affect your work?” or “What impact do you see from this change?”
Encourage Elaboration: Prompt the speaker to elaborate on their ideas or concerns. For example, “Can you tell me more about your thoughts on this?” or “What are some examples of this happening?”