“Kind words cost nothing, but are worth much.” This proverb highlights the importance of words in communication. But simply speaking is not enough; we need to know how to respond skillfully and intelligently to make a good impression on others. So, how can we respond effectively? Let’s explore this secret together with “SOFT SKILLS”!
What are Feedback Skills?
Feedback skills in communication are the ability to provide appropriate and effective responses in conversations. They help you show respect, empathy, and understanding towards the person you are speaking with, while also allowing you to convey your ideas and messages clearly and understandably.
Why are Feedback Skills Important?
Imagine you are chatting with a friend, excitedly sharing your story, but they are indifferent, unresponsive, or only give brief, emotionless answers. How would you feel? You would certainly feel disrespected, even “abandoned” in your own conversation.
Good feedback skills help you:
- Build strong relationships: When you know how to respond skillfully, the other person feels listened to and understood, fostering good and lasting relationships.
- Promote effective communication: Positive feedback encourages the other person to share more, making the conversation more lively and effective.
- Solve problems effectively: Accurate and appropriate feedback helps you understand the issue clearly, enabling you to propose suitable and convincing solutions.
- Boost self-confidence: When you know how to respond confidently and skillfully, you feel more confident in communication, making a good impression on others.
Effective Feedback Skills
1. Active Listening:
“Listen to silence. It has so much to say.” This quote by Rumi emphasizes the importance of listening in communication.
To provide effective feedback, you first need to listen actively and attentively. This includes:
- Focus on the words: Avoid letting personal thoughts or private matters distract you; give your full attention to the speaker.
- Observe body language: In addition to words, pay attention to the speaker’s gestures, facial expressions, and tone of voice to better understand the meaning of their words.
- Ask questions: Ask questions related to the content to show that you are following and want to understand more clearly.
2. Giving Positive Feedback:
Positive feedback helps you show empathy, support, and encouragement to the person you are speaking with. Some effective ways to give positive feedback include:
- Nodding and smiling: These expressions show that you are listening and agreeing with the speaker.
- Using positive body language: Sit up straight, direct your gaze towards the speaker, maintain appropriate distance, etc.
- Using affirming statements: “I understand,” “I agree,” “I find that very interesting,” etc.
- Asking open-ended questions: “Can you share more about that?” “What do you think about this issue?” etc.
3. Honest and Direct Feedback:
Honesty and directness build trust and respect in communication. However, it’s important to be mindful of how you convey your feedback to avoid hurting or offending the other person.
- Choose appropriate words: Use polite and respectful language, avoiding words that could be misunderstood or offensive.
- Show empathy: Share the speaker’s feelings, express understanding of their difficulties.
- Offer sincere advice: If you have advice to offer, do so sincerely, based on your experience and understanding.
4. Flexible and Appropriate Feedback:
Depending on the situation and the person you are speaking with, you need to adjust your feedback accordingly.
- With older people: Use polite and respectful language, showing respect.
- With friends: You can use friendly and cheerful language, but still maintain appropriateness.
- With colleagues: Maintain a professional attitude, using polite and respectful language.
Tips to Improve Feedback Skills
- Practice regularly: Participate in conversations, seminars, forums, etc., to practice your feedback skills.
- Observe good communicators: Learn from the feedback styles of good communicators, drawing lessons for yourself.
- Focus on the speaker: Instead of thinking about your next answer, focus on what the speaker is saying.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions: Questions help you understand the content better and also show that you are paying attention and listening.
- Use positive body language: Nod, smile, make eye contact, etc., to show empathy and your interest.
- Be patient and respectful: Everyone has different communication styles; be patient and respect those differences.
A Story about Feedback Skills
Once, I had the opportunity to meet a successful businessman who had achieved success in the real estate industry. I was very curious about his secret to success and asked, “What did you do to become as successful as you are today?”
He smiled kindly and shared, “My secret is effective listening and feedback skills. I always take the time to listen to customers, understand their needs, and offer the most suitable solutions. This has helped me build trust and satisfaction from customers, contributing to my success.”
This story shows that feedback skills are not just basic communication skills but also a key to success in life and work.
Conclusion
Feedback skills in communication are essential for building good relationships, promoting effective communication, and achieving success in life. By applying the skills and tips shared, you will communicate confidently and impress everyone. Practice regularly, be persistent, and keep learning to improve your feedback skills!
Suggested related articles:
- Kỹ năng giao tiếp cho học sinh
- Kỹ năng giao tiếp và thuyết trình
- Sách kỹ năng thuyết trình hiệu quả PDF
Contact us now for consultation and support:
Phone number: 0372666666 Address: 55 To Tien Thanh, Hanoi
We have a 24/7 customer care team, ready to answer all your questions.