The Importance of Interpersonal Communication Skill

That sad situation was the result when one thinks he had was right while the other one also believes he wasn't at fault. Both of them tried to outsmart each other until one claims victory. They fought for their "rights" which ended in a tragedy!

Here's an actual example of miscommunication in everyday life. My spouse would sometimes buy me signature clothing. My mom who found out the price later, would advise us to budget our expenditure by just buying what is affordable to us.

Then problem arises. My spouse thinks that her effort to give me the best was unappreciated. Mom, on the other hand, would think that my spouse is such a spender.

There's a conflict with their beliefs. We are totally unique; not only physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. So no two people are exactly alike.

So exactly, how can people prevent this kind of conflict from occurring when the opinion of one person does not correspond with that of the other?

Interpersonal communication skill is the key to overcoming doubts and misunderstandings.

Instead of keeping the other people guessing, you should let them know what's in your mind.

There was a story about a couple who were filing a divorce. After the lawyer have spoken to them both, he found out that the root cause of all their problems was due to miscommunication.

Here's the couple's problems.

The man filing the divorce said that he just hated the breakfast meal that his wife often prepared for him. On the other hand, the wife said she never liked cooking it because it's very difficult to prepare. She's only preparing the meal because she thought it was her husband's favorite.

See? If only one of them took the initiative to speak out what's in his or her mind, then that particular dilemma would be over. Now why would people prefer to keep their complaints and criticisms to themselves? What's holding them back?

The reason is most, people, if not all, would like to be accepted and to be perceived as likeable in the eyes of others. They do not want to be rejected. So how can you get your message across without hurting their feelings?

The answer is to substitute negative statements with positive ones.

Instead of saying "You don't understand," say "Let me explain. "Instead of remarking "You're wrong," say "Let me clarify." Instead of stating "You failed to say," just mention "Perhaps this was not mentioned."

Certain words can affect a person more negatively in comparison with other words that have the same meaning. Nothing could be more pleasing to the ear than hearing someone else say that you are right. In this case, be prepared to let other people know that you respect their opinions. You may add your comments at the end, but acknowledge them first.

For example, you may say:

You're right, although ... Great suggestion, however ... I understand your situation, however ... I agree with your opinion, however ... I would feel the same way if I were you, although ...

Always, reassure your counterparts that the decision made will benefit both parties. People need to feel that they have made the right choice. They want to feel important and respected.

Use interpersonal communication wisely for everyone's advantage as it is a gift.