As the year winds down and we gather with family and loved ones for holidays and New Year’s, let’s reflect on communication. Humans are social creatures, and communication is our primary way of connecting to one another. We’ve compiled some communication goals and strategies to carry into those holiday parties and into next year. Cheers to healthy communication.
Speaking Well
As you participate in conversations, the way you speak can influence how you’re perceived, as well as how your message is received. It’s a good idea to use an even voice, speaking slowly and clearly. It’s easy to talk fast when you’re speaking about something you’re excited about, but your conversational partner will have an easier time following if you slow down. Always ask yourself: “Am I making myself easy to listen to? “
Listening Carefully
An old saying is “you have two ears and one mouth. You know what that means? Listen twice as much as you talk.” There’s some truth there. Listening is a skill, and it’s one you should practice.
To begin with, always face the person speaking and show them they have your attention: eye contact, nodding occasionally, etc. To go deeper, ask the speaker questions in response to what they’re saying (but don’t interrupt!), without shifting the conversation to yourself.
For example, if the person you’re talking to is telling a story about their kids, avoid saying things like “oh, I know! My kids also…” because that shifts the conversation to yourself. Keep your partner (and their kids) the subject of the conversation by asking questions that deepen the story they’re telling or allows them to talk more about their kids.
The Importance of Hearing
Listening and speaking become much harder with hearing loss. Missed or misheard words can make following a conversation difficult and can lead to frustration in both parties. Unfortunately, on average, only one in five people with hearing loss seek help once they notice symptoms of hearing loss, waiting upwards of ten years or more to seek help.
Make communication easier and strengthen your relationships by seeking help if you notice symptoms of hearing loss. Speak to our skilled team of audiologists at Kampsen Hearing to create a custom treatment plan that addresses your hearing needs. Don’t let hearing loss impede your communication with your loved ones this holiday season. Call today to make an appointment.