How does effective communication help me?

If asked, will I proudly claim to be an effective communicator?
My answer – probably a big No.

Even though we have been communicating with others in various aspects since the day we were born, sometimes the message that we try to convey, may not get through to the other party. Information may be translated ineffectively in the process and at the end of the communication line, the whole message gets thwarted.  In another scenario, we may think that our words are harmless, but to the one on the receiving end, it might be rude, belittling or even offensive. This is probably why some say that communication is a form of an art, one that is not easily mastered.

Indeed, I agree with that. Poor communication skills will lead to a communication breakdown, where information is not successfully delivered from one person to another. In some cases, poor communication skills harm relationships because misunderstandings arise. This is why effective communication skills are important, because we are not living alone on a deserted island. We are living in a highly globalized world, where many people of different cultures live together in one country, some even working together in the same company. Often times, one needs to build healthy relationships with one another to work together, and what we need is –good communication skills.

I believe that this is an asset which everyone should aim to acquire as this will enable people to look at us in a different light, as compared to a person who cannot express himself clearly. No doubt, these skills cannot be attained overnight but through practice over time. I hope that after going through this module, I would be able to apply these skills confidently label myself an effective communicator.