Why is communication essential for success in life ?

Good communication skills are the key to success. Communication may be verbal or non-verbal; just a good expression at times conveys better than spoken words . Good communication skills are a must to convey a view point, to convince people. You may have the facts and logic right but if you are not able to put across it to the target audience in a convincing manner then you may fail to get their approval.

Communication at home….. 

At home, the art of communication matters in keeping the happiness index high. Dialogues are any day better than monologues. Allow the kids to express their minds. Some of them may be poor in face to face and written communication but may express well verbally. Some get nervous with the very thought of getting on to the stage. It is the responsibility of parents and teachers to help the children develop communication skills.

The elders must not only encourage  the children to speak and write but also not hesitate to correct and guide.  Unfortunately some parents do not indulge too much while there are others who do everything for the kids.  Both are wrong. The role of the parents is to guide the kids to find their own answers.  This will help the kids in facing the world, head on, in future. They will not develop cold feet facing interviews or giving presentations. 

Parents/ elders also have to be careful of their own style of communication at home. Loose talks or abusive language should be strictly avoided. Care  must be taken that proper manners are observed while talking with each other or on phone. Non- violent style of communication is what is to be followed.

Good interpersonal  skills kids learn at home will hold them in good stead through their life. 

Communication in Office….

Many seniors adopt a very aggressive or abusive style of communication with juniors. The aim should be to make the subordinate understand and not scare him/ her. While timely corrections are a must for overall progress of the organization and the individuals a word of appreciation for good work also matters. A word of appreciation or even a ‘smiley’ through the email from the senior will go a long way in keeping the junior motivated. Hugs still matter and can-do magic.

An arm round the shoulder, a pat on the back or a casual inquiry about the well-being helps in keeping the atmosphere stress free in the work places. A good boss is one who listens to  everyone, takes feedback before giving out a decision.  This will positively help in improving the office environment and increase productivity. Empathy matters more than sympathy in work places. 

Good communication is a must in social interaction, building networks and growing the business. Many professionals have lost out on growth prospects because of bad word of mouth reputation. This does not  mean a senior should mollycoddle the juniors. A senior must be firm in professional dealings but have total control on the language and the behavior. 

Listening…..

Listening skills and patience are as important a part of communication as is speaking/ expressing or writing.  I have seen the best of the orators failing as leaders for want of good listening abilities. A good listener is always well informed which is the key to making effective decisions. 

The problem starts at home when parents do not have time or patience to listen to the kids. What the parents may consider as non-sense may be the most important for the child. A child who grows up in such an environment may never have time to listen to anyone as an adult. 

Conclusion….

Good verbal/ non verbal communication and listening skills are a must at all stages of life. Communication is what helps in starting, maintaining and sustaining relations between individuals or nations.

“Communication skills matter the most in a professional career and personal life….You can honestly convey whatever you wanted to…..without actually saying much” 

“ Boys …You are likely to lose out on a potential girlfriend for want of good communication skills …..learn to communicate effectively…”

Communication ….An art worth mastering…