The Seven Sins of Interpersonal Communication

Communication is a complex process. Different perceptions may cause difficulties in the transmission of ideas and information. Here are the seven sins of interpersonal communication and ways to avoid them:

1. It's Greek To Me!: Your communication can be effective only when presented in a language the receivers can understand. You need to speak not in your own language or style of thinking but in the language and style of thinking of the receivers. Understand their educational level and their demographics and communicate to them accordingly.
2. Overload: Even when communicating in the language of the receivers, you can still lose them if you overload them with too much information or too complex ideas.
3. Biases and Assumptions: Examine your possible biases and personal assumptions about the issues you're communicating. Disclose your own interests and agendas. The receivers will quickly tune out if they suspect that you have a hidden agenda. By being authentic, you will gain credibility, which is essential for effective communication.
4. One-Way: Communication is not just speaking. It's both speaking and listening. One way communication is no communication at all. Make sure to listen and understand the others' needs and points of view.
5. Ambiguity: If your message is not clear, or if it can be interpreted in more than one way, it will leave the receivers wondering about what you mean. Make sure that your message delivers a clear, unambiguous meaning.
6. Wrong Timing: In certain communications, timing is everything. For example, a message of praise and recognition should not come too late after the fact, or it will lose its effectiveness. The "Better Late Than Never" advice may be true, but a timely message is the best.
7. Negative Attitude: Most people don't like negative communication and bad news. Passive, weak, or negative communication will turn people off. Even the most negative, critical, or difficult communication will be better received when presented in a positive, affirmative style. Instead of saying, "This is a terrible idea," why not say, "Tell me how you can make this idea work."