Effective Communication Skills - Assignment Example

Introduction: The intention of this assignment is to compare two theoretical frameworks thatare within the scope of interpersonal communication. These theories are, social penetration theory, and uncertainty reduction theory (Ellis, 2002). This paper is divided into five sections. The first section is the introduction, the second section highlights the concepts and philosophies of these theories, the third section identifies the similarities of these two theoretical frameworks, the fourth section highlights their differences, and the fifth section is a conclusion. Uncertainty Reduction Theory and Social Penetration Theory: Uncertainty reduction is a theoretical framework that seeks to understand the manner which people are able to reduce any uncertainty that occurs between them, during the early stages of interaction (Webster, 2002). This is always based on a sense of self-disclosure. Furthermore, this theoretical framework seeks to explain the different communication techniques that can be used for purposes of reducing uncertainty amongst two people, or a group of people, who have just met (Cherniss, 2001). One of the best communication techniques that can be used to improve communication amongst communicators is an efficient and effective listening skill. Effective listening abilities are part and parcel of communication skills that can help in improving the manner which people are able to identify the message that one party is trying to communicate (Cherniss, 2001, Webster, 2002). Social penetration theory involves the development of a deeper intimacy, between the communicating parties, through a mutual self-disclosure (Goleman and Boyatzis, 2004). This theoretical framework denotes that the level of intimacy is the highest, in regard to relationship building. To reach this level of intimacy, there is a need of maintaining honesty and using communication tools that have the ability of passing accurate message, without distortion (Goleman and Boyatzis, 2004). The best method of communication is face to face communication. Similarities: One of the major similarities between these two theoretical frameworks is that they deal with the creation of a relationship between individuals. For example, the social penetration theory explains that developing a close relationship with people, is achieved in an orderly and gradual manner, leading from a less intimate, to a more intimate relationship. On the other hand, uncertainty reduction theory explains that relationships are built through effective communication, between the parties involved (Blundel and Blundel, 2011). Another similarity is that both theoretical frameworks advocate for a systematic and gradual process of building relationships through the process of self-disclosure (McLuhan and McLuhan, 2011). This means that a relationship is built through a systematic process that involves efficiency in the use of language tools. Differences: One major difference that exists between these two theoretical frameworks is on the process they use, to achieve their objectives. Under the uncertainty reduction theory, there are a series of steps and processes that an individual should use, for purposes of acquiring information. It seeks to acquire this information, by creating seven basic assumptions (Childre and Rozman, 2005). Some of these assumptions are, experience of uncertainty on personal issues, uncertainty is normally an aversive state, and it has the capability of generating cognitive stress, etc. On the other hand, under the social penetration theory, a relationship is created by disclosing information about an individual. Tools to use in improving my performance: For purposes of improving my communication performance, in a work related situation, there is a need of using the following tools of communication, Memos. Memos are an effective way of reducing uncertainties, and this is mainly because I can express myself, in a clear and effective manner during communication. It is possible to give more detail, regarding myself, and circumstance of my work through a written word, when compared with a spoken word. Computer systems and technology, i.e. communicating through emails. The use of computers and other technological gadgets are important because they help in the creation of a personal and intimate relationship within the work place environment. This is one of the major aims of social penetration theory and the uncertainty reduction theory. For example, computers would help me access the internet; hence use the mailing services to communicate with my peers. Face to face communication. Face to face communication is one of the most important tools, that’s helps in the process of self-disclosure. Through this tool of communication, I have managed to master the various body languages of people, which play an important role in determining whether there is honesty in the manner which people communicate or not. Conclusion: Interpersonal theories play an important role, in explaining the most efficient methods that an individual should use while communicating with other people. The social penetration theory and the uncertainty reduction theory are effective in explaining the most efficient methods of creating a personal, social, and work related relationships. Reflection Paper: This paper contains a reflection on my strengths and weaknesses in relation to how I communicate, and relate with my people. As an individual, I have come to appreciate the importance of developing and coming up with strong and good communication skills. This is because they would play an important role in determining whether I would sustain, create or develop a relationship. One of my major strengths lies in my ability to maintain a face to face conversation, through eye contacts (Worth, 2004). This is an important strength, mainly because I have the capability of gazing into the eyes of an individual that I communicate with, and hence instilling a sense of confidence, and creating some trusts. I managed to know that this is my strength, because of the various feedbacks that I got from my parents, and friends. For example, my mother has acknowledged that she is happy with my ability to maintain eye contacts, and this is because it instills a sense of confidence in me (Goleman and Boyatzis, 2004). My class mates and social friends have also acknowledged this important characteristic of mine, and because of it, they are able to know when I am sincere or not. Eye contact is one of the major methods that can be used to create a sense of confidence, amongst the parties to the communication. It is important to explain that most people are always reluctant and unable to maintain some eye contacts. This is because they do not feel confidence about themselves, or some of them, are telling lies. Based on this fact, it is always difficult for an individual to maintain a relationship that is full of trust, if he or she finds it difficult to communicate while maintaining some eye contacts (Goleman and Boyatzis, 2004). It is also important to understand that, in most interviews, one of the characteristics that they look in an individual is his or her ability to maintain some elements of confidence (Worth, 2004). They are always concerned, if an individual can communicate without maintaining some eye contact. This means that the person under consideration is either telling lies, or is not confidence of him. Another major strength, that I have, is the capability of efficiently using the modern gadgets of technology to communicate (Worth, 2004). This includes, computers, mobile phones, tablets, etc. It is important to explain that these digital tools of communication are important in facilitating efficient communication between parties involved. Take for example the computers. Through the computers, an individual manages to get the capability of accessing the internet. The internet facilitates communication, mainly because it makes it possible for people to use the social media, as an avenue of meeting friends and communicating (Worth, 2004). As an individual, I have a heavy presence in the social media, and I am a member of virtually every social media platforms that exists. This includes twitter, Google +, Face book, Instagram, Linkedin, etc. It is through these platforms, that I managed to learn on the importance of having efficient and good communication skills. However, it is important to explain that some of the relationships created through the social media platform are not necessary, and cannot last long (Stein, 2007). This is because of different personalities, and tastes that people would always have. Another major strength that I possess is my outgoing personality. I am an individual who likes to make friends, and sustain the friends under consideration. Because of this personality, I managed to develop some communication skills that involved better listening, and following up on any communication issue or problems that may occur between my friends and I (Childre and Rozman, 2005). Through this personality, I have managed to create a number of friends, whom we understand each other. This is an evidence that depicts my outgoing personality. In conclusion, where strengths exist, weaknesses are also depicted. I have two weaknesses. One of my major weaknesses is my anger. I am an individual who is easily aroused to anger, and this is a very negative inter-personal communication skill. This is because; it has the capability of scaring my friends. This could result to inefficient communication between me, and my friends. To correct this weakness, I have engaged in reading books concerning how to manage anger, while associating with other people. Another major weakness is my talking habit. I am fast talkers, and it is always difficult for me to keep quiet, when I am with people. This normally compromises my ability to keep secrets, or confidential information. This is a difficult trait to control, and I believe with time, I will manage to acquire the ability of talking little. Bibliography: Blundel, R., & Blundel, R. (2004). Effective organisational communication: Perspectives, principles and practices (2nd ed.). Harlow, England: Financial Times Prentice Hall. Top of Form Bottom of Form Cherniss, C. (2001). The emotionally intelligent workplace how to select for measure, and improve emotional intelligence in individuals, groups, and organizations. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. Top of Form Bottom of Form Childre, D., & Rozman, D. (2005). Transforming stress: The HeartMath solution for relieving worry, fatigue, and tension. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications. Top of Form Bottom of Form Ellis, R. (2002). Communication skills stepladders to success for the professional. Bristol, UK: Intellect. Top of Form Bottom of Form Goleman, D., & Boyatzis, R. (2004). Primal leadership: Learning to lead with emotional intelligence. Boston, Mass.: Harvard Business School Press. Top of Form Bottom of Form McLuhan, E., & McLuhan, M. (2011). Theories of communication. New York: Peter Lang. Top of Form Bottom of Form Stein, S. (2007). Make your workplace great the 7 keys to an emotionally intelligent organization. Mississauga, Ont.: J. Wiley & Sons Canada. Top of Form Bottom of Form Webster, F. (2002). Theories of the information society (2nd ed.). London: Routledge. Top of Form Bottom of Form Worth, R. (2004). Communication skills (2nd ed.). New York: Ferguson. Read More