Training - Training small groups - Effective Communication

Effective communication is about giving and receiving information in a clear and easily understood manner. Effective communication is a two-way process where both parties speak, listen and respond.

A trainer who simply reads from notes for a whole session is not communicating effectively.

In training, effective communication is used to change behaviour, involve participants, give and receive information and ensure understanding.

Barriers to effective communication
Barriers to effective communication occur when understanding becomes blocked. This may lead to poor training, misunderstandings, conflict, objectives not being met and frustration.

There are many reasons for these, including:

Using long words
These can be difficult to understand and make participants feel uneasy as they may not feel confident to ask what they mean.

Using jargon
Not all participants will be familiar with workplace jargon especially if they are new. If it is used make sure that it's meaning is explained.

Language differences
Where there are language differences in training it is important to ensure that you speak clearly and ensure that you are understood.

Boring presentations
Participants will lose interest very quickly if the presentation is boring. Find ways to liven up your presentation and make it more interesting.

Training aids don't work
Participants may feel frustrated and loose interest if you constantly need to fix training aids during a training session. It also makes you look a real prat.

Way things are said
Be careful how you say things as this can the meaning and therefore understanding of what is being said.

Having preconceptions
This will effect the trainer and the participants. Make sure that participants know what the presentation is about and what they will be required to do. As the trainer you need to be aware of any preconceptions you might have about participants.

Mike Hitchen
Mike Hitchen Consulting