Restating what the speaker has said makes certain that there is a common understanding between the listener and the speaker. Active listening can also give the speaker confidence that the listener is interested in what the speaker has to say. When people are in conflict, they often contradict each other. This tends to make people defensive, and they will either lash out or withdraw and say nothing more. However, if they feel that people are really attuned to their concerns and want to listen, they are likely to explain in detail what they feel and why.
I endeavour to find ways to support communication using variety of methods. I also share these methods with other staff and people around the individual to maximise their communication. 1.3 Features of the environment that may help or hinder communication are; • volume it is important to ensure the level of voice is correct for the individual and that background noise does not impair the hearing or raise stress levels. • time allowing enough time to communicate is important. If the individual feels rushed, they may become agitated or restricted and not therefore understand clearly.
A good verbal communicator is someone who listens well and can think and express ideas clearly. They should be someone who respects other people and makes them feel comfortable. They should have a good memory to make people feel listened to, and be patient and not rush people when engaging in conversation. In health and social care, verbal communication is useful to talk to everyone who can understand the same language as you, and who has the ability to understand it. To be a good non-verbal communicator they should have positive body language by making eye contact at points during the conversation, smiling, having good posture, use positive facial expressions and maybe use hand gestures or head movements to express their true meaning.
Unit 4222-324 (HSC 3029) Outcome 1, 1. Explain the importance of meeting an individual's communication needs. The importance of meeting somebodies communication needs is because if they cannot communicate effectively then you can understand what they are trying to express. Different people have different communication methods or methods that they prefer to use, so we should support them when using their preferred method of communication. Without communication people cannot express their needs or wants, so therefore it is a basic human right.
Effective communication enables service users’ needs and wishes to be met. The individuals personality or behaviour could affect the way they communicate with others. For example, if the person is shy he or she may not be in the mood to communicate clearly, and may stumble on their words. How we communicate with the service users we support, is very important that we communicate with them very clearly, due to their cognitive disorder they may misunderstand what we are trying to say. This could also affect the relationship we have with the servicer users.
Whether verbal or non verbal communication is used it helps me understand a resident. E.g. if a resident is shouting this may indicate distress and fear or they may simply need something. Each resident is different so it is important to know the resident. Also a distressed resident may distress other residents so I need to know when it is necessary when to take the resident to a safe area so I can calm them quietly and make them feel as secure as I can whilst I ascertain their needs.
Throughout the book the author revealed plenty of useful information put into action in approving are listening skills to be better listeners. My actions consist of be more conscious in my listening skills and continue to control the negative emotions that sometimes arise that prevent us from listening to others. It is important to keep intact my emotion until I have a full understanding and clarity of the message being relied to me. I will remember to steer away from being defensive, because at the same time I can be unknowingly attacking others around me that loves me. With every opportunity of listening I will be mindful of creating a safe environment where clarity, understanding, and listening can take place effectively.
I make sure that I am clear on instructions, times, dates or location and if appropriate I like to have it written down. I aim to make positive and lively conversation to promote the interest in conversation. It is important to be confident as if you are nervous you can sometimes create barriers making communication difficult. Eye contact shows that you are listening and are interested in what the person has to say. I try to be polite and friendly in order to create trust, people feel that you are approachable and tend to communicate better when they trust you.
It is crucial in building a relationship with the client. Not just nodding of the head type of listening, but it must be active listening. The client needs to know that the helper hears them, understands them and is involved in what they are saying. Asking questions and using reflective listening is important, all while keeping the objectives in mind. Listening gives the helper insight on the situation, helps gather information and gives clues on to what the clients thought process may be.
Second, is active listening, to become an active listener you have to “respond to feelings, encourage the speaker to get in touch with his or her own thoughts and feelings by phrasing what was just said, ask questions and give your undivided attention.” (Roland, 2000) These are some steps that researcher recommend for active listener. And lastly “Active listening techniques are especially useful in the counseling process as the supervisor attempts to ferret out problems.