Communication Skills

Why Communication Matters

Great communication is the foundation of strong relationships, academic success, and career achievement. Learning to express yourself clearly and listen actively transforms every area of your life.

👂 Active Listening

Master the art of truly hearing and understanding others

💬 Clear Expression

Articulate your thoughts, feelings, and needs effectively

🎭 Nonverbal Cues

Understand body language, tone, and facial expressions

🤝 Assertiveness

Balance respect for yourself and others in communication

👂

Activity 1: Active Listening Skills

Learn the HEAR method for effective listening

HALT

Stop what you're doing and focus fully

ENGAGE

Make eye contact, nod, show you're present

ASK

Clarify with questions, paraphrase to confirm

RESPOND

Reply thoughtfully, not reactively

Think of a recent conversation where you didn't listen well. What happened?

How would using HEAR have changed that conversation?

💬

Activity 2: "I" Statements

Express feelings without blaming or attacking

Formula: "I feel [emotion] when [situation] because [reason]. I need [request]."

❌ "You never listen to me!"

✅ Transform to an "I" statement:

❌ "You're so selfish!"

✅ Transform to an "I" statement:

Write an "I" statement for something bothering you right now:

🎭

Activity 3: Reading Nonverbal Cues

Understand what body language really means

Positive Nonverbal Cues:

Eye contact (shows interest and honesty) Open posture (arms uncrossed, facing you) Nodding (indicates agreement or understanding) Genuine smile (eyes crinkle, not just mouth)

Negative Nonverbal Cues:

Avoiding eye contact (discomfort, dishonesty) Crossed arms (defensive, closed off) Looking at phone (disinterested, rude) Tense jaw/fists (anger, frustration)

Your Reflection

1. What's your biggest communication challenge?

2. How could better communication improve your relationships?

3. What's one communication skill you'll practice this week?

Key Takeaways

👂

Listen Actively

Use HEAR: Halt, Engage, Ask, Respond.

💬

"I" Statements

Express feelings without blame or attack.

🎭

Body Language

93% of communication is nonverbal—pay attention!

🤝

Be Assertive

Not passive, not aggressive—balanced and respectful.

💭

Think First

Pause before responding in emotional moments.

🔄

Practice Daily

Communication is a skill that improves with use.

Certificate of Completion

🏆

This certifies that

Participant

has successfully completed