Effective Communication Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on the lecture notes regarding effective communication strategies, politeness markers, and interpersonal skills.

Clarity

The act of expressing ideas clearly and precisely to ensure the message is understood.

Empathy

The ability to understand others' perspectives and validate their emotions to build trust and openness.

Active Listening

Engaging fully in a conversation by listening attentively, nodding, acknowledging the speaker, and remaining present without distractions.

Self-awareness

The practice of identifying personal emotions, triggers, and communication styles, often involving pausing to reflect before responding.

Mindfulness

Staying present and aware during interactions to communicate with clarity and a calm mindset.

Interpersonal Communication

The process of building genuine bonds and mutual respect through the exchange of ideas, feelings, and emotions.

Turn-taking

A conversation strategy that involves reading cues to know when to speak and respecting others' turns to ensure a smooth, balanced flow.

Constructive Feedback

Honest and respectful responses that recognize progress, motivate improvement, and add ideas to build trust.

Clarification

The act of asking questions or requesting examples, such as "Would you mind clarifying?", to ensure full understanding of a topic.

Politeness Markers

Respectful language used to show regard for others' dignity and build cooperation, including phrases like "Could you please…" or "I was wondering if…".

Interrupting Politely

Using softening phrases like "Pardon me, may I add?" or "Sorry to interrupt, but…" to enter a conversation at a natural break.

Summarizing

Recapping or paraphrasing main ideas to confirm agreement, reduce confusion, and ensure both parties are on the same page.

Polite Refusals

Graciously declining offers or commitments using phrases like "I'd love to, but I have a prior commitment" or "Maybe another time".

5Ws & 1H

A framework for asking better questions: Who (people), What (topic), Where & When (context), Why (reasons), and How (process).

Conversation Management

The skill of starting an engaging topic, maintaining flow through transitions, and closing a discussion respectfully by summarizing key points.