Communication Basics
“I feel frustrated when meetings start late because it disrupts my schedule. I need meetings to start on time.” This is an example of using this communication skill.
What is an “I” Statement?
This communication skill involves fully focusing on the speaker, understanding their message, and responding thoughtfully.
What is active listening?
This communication skill means repeating or summarizing what someone said to show you understand them.
What is reflection?
This type of communication uses spoken or written words to share a message.
What is verbal communication?
This term describes arguing in a respectful and healthy way without hurting the other person.
What is fair fighting?
“I” statements are designed to reduce this common negative reaction during disagreements.
What is defensiveness?
This type of communication includes body language, eye contact, and facial expressions while listening.
What is nonverbal communication?
Instead of giving advice right away, reflection encourages you to do this first.
What is listen and repeat the message?
Smiling, frowning, or rolling your eyes are examples of this type of communication.
What is nonverbal communication?
During a disagreement, this should be the focus instead of attacking the other person.
What is the problem or issue?
This tone should be used when delivering an “I” statement, so the conversation stays productive.
What is a calm and respectful tone?
Repeating back what someone said in your own words to show you understand is called this.
What is paraphrasing?
Reflection focuses on understanding the speaker’s message instead of doing this.
What is judging or criticizing?
Looking at someone when they are speaking shows this nonverbal behavior.
What is eye contact?
Fair fighting encourages people to listen to understand rather than doing this.
What is trying to win the argument?
This part explains the situation that caused the feeling.
What is “when [specific behavior happens]”?
This listening skill involves asking questions to better understand what the speaker means.
What are clarifying questions?
If someone says, “I’m tired of doing all the chores,” a reflection might begin with these words.
What is “It sounds like…”?
When your words say one thing but your body language says another, this happens.
What are mixed messages?
Finding a solution where both people give a little is called this.
What is compromise?
Using “I” statements shows you are taking responsibility for these.
What are your emotions or feelings?
Listening and trying to understand the other person’s point of view shows this.
What is empathy or understanding?
This phrase is often used when reflecting emotions: “It sounds like you feel…”
What is a feeling statement?
Two people say the same words, “I understand,” but one speaks softly and clearly, while the other yells and speaks rapidly. This shows that verbal communication is influenced by not just the words, but also this.
What is tone, volume, and pace (paralanguage) in verbal communication?
Fair fighting encourages people to discuss one issue at a time instead of doing this.
What is bringing up multiple problems at once?