<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nEffective communication begins by taking care of myself. I follow a two-prong approach. I regularly set aside time to recharge through reading and listening to music. Just as important, I selectively choose events I will attend to manage my social energy. Only then can I apply communication strategies optimally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many people consider Fake it ’till you make it!<\/em> good advice, but not for introverts. Trying to communicate like an extrovert is exhausting and unsustainable. It will affect your credibility because people will sense you are not authentic.<\/p>\n\n\n\nYour reflective communication skills make you an engaging conversationalist. Reflective communication uses three simple steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Listen. Process. Respond.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nMindfulness <\/strong>is a crucial element of active listening. You maintain eye contact and focus entirely on the conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- What do you hear <\/strong>them saying?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What do you see<\/strong>? Watch their body language, facial expression, and gestures.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What emotion <\/strong>do you sense?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
DO NOT let your mind wander or think about your response now. It requires patience to listen with complete focus and without interruption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Active listening<\/strong> involves listening without judgment. You don’t offer advice unless specifically requested. It lets the other person feel safe with you. When you show empathy and acceptance, it leads to positive engagement. People will feel respected and valued.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOnce a person has finished speaking, you can repeat or summarise what they’ve said to ensure you understood them correctly. If you are unsure, ask them to rephrase for better understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Introverts listen not only with their ears, but also with their hearts. Picking up on the underlying emotions enables you to offer support through a simple touch or sit silently with them. Never underestimate the power of silence!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Use the power of the pause to buy time to formulate your response. Say: “That is such an interesting perspective. Can I have a moment to think about it?”<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nIt is a good idea to have some questions ready, like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- How long have you been living in this area?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What attractions do you know about for weekend outings?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What good book\/movie did you enjoy recently?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Asking about family is always a winner. And asking more questions about what they’ve said is an easy way to keep the conversation going with minimal input from you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
People love it when you show interest and listen to them. It strengthens the relationship when they feel heard. Understanding someone’s strengths and weaknesses is also useful when conflicts arise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n