Communication, as defined by Merriam Dictionary, is the act or process of using words, sounds, signs, or behaviors to express or exchange information or to express your ideas, thoughts, feelings, etc. to someone else. It plays a vital role to the lives of each of us. We cannot live without knowing how to communicate; it can be through oral, written, or even through our simple acts.
But, have you ever thought why most Filipinos are afraid of communicating using the second language? Well, in my years of teaching, I realized that it is not only because of lack of knowledge in using the English language, but it is more of lack of confidence, self-esteem and willingness to use the said language. Because of that, here are some tips on how we could overcome our communication fears:
- 1.Always practice asking an open ended question.
Avoid asking a question that is answerable by YES or NO because this will stop you from having you a good communication with other people. Practice asking questions that will lead you to a meaningful conversation. Instead of asking “Did you have a nice weekend?” better rephrase it into “What did you do last weekend?” . Always ask questions that will make your listener feel that you are interested talking to him.
- 2.Be an active listener.
Participate rather than spectate. Consciously be involved in the discussion, ask relevant, meaningful questions and don’t simply wait for a gap in the conversation so that you can be heard.
- 3.Before you open your mouth, think first and get clarity of what you want to say.
Some people engage their mouth before they engage their brain. That is not the way it should be. We must think first before saying a word so that others will not misunderstand you. Also, to fix your thoughts first before saying a word, this will help you speak spontaneously.
- 4.Listen to yourself on audio tape or watch yourself on video.
This might be an uncomfortable way of practicing communication skills but this is an eye opening exercise. This will notify you of your errors and will help you be on your audiences’ feet. Through seeing yourself on a video, you will feel what your audience felt while watching you. Through this, you could correct your mistakes, enhance on the lacking abilities, and improve your communication skills.
- 5.Develop self-confidence.
Self –confidence is one of the major problems of most of us. Well, this cannot be avoided especially for the beginners. Honestly, it took me a long time to develop self –confidence and until now, I cannot say that I fully have it, but step by step, I am trying my best to develop it.
Some effective ways on developing self –confidence is to always make yourself presentable, practice good posture, get to know yourself better, avoid negative thoughts and always think positively.
These were just some tips on how you will overcome communication fears, but it is up to us on how you will carry yourself in front of other people. Hope that these will help you in having good communication skills.
By: Christian Faith M. Felipe | T-I | Academy of Queen Mary
