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TYPES OF QUESTIONS IN COMMUNICATING:

DIRECT: direct questions are designed to require a specific answer. They narrow the range of possible answers and focus. Questions in this category can be answered with a yes or no, a single word, or a simple phrase.

OPEN: these questions allow a wider range of answers often requiring several sentences or a longer explanation. Opinion questions, explanations, and reasoning behind decisions fall into this type.

CLARIFYING: this type of question asks for more information or a more complete explanation. It is often used when the listener finds an answer unclear.

LOADED: this question contains a hidden position and tends to back the other party into a corner. Many people feel angry or manipulated when asked these types of questions.

MAKE SURE YOU KNOW WHY YOU ARE ASKING A QUESTION TO BEGIN WITH, ANDWHAT TYPE OF QUESTION IS THE MOST USEFUL FOR YOU.

INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION IS SPEAKING AND LISTENING, AND CREATING A SITUATION WHERE EVERYONE CAN LEARN AND GATHER INFORMATION TOGETHER.

The following are essential in interpersonal communication:

1. Self-image: being comfortable with oneself makes you a better communicator.
2. Values: do you value what the other person does and says and vice versa.
3. Perceptions and first impressions: what message are you giving? Are they receiving it the way you meant it?
4. Depth of understanding: Make sure you are being clear enough for anyone to understand.
5. Background experience: Does the listener’s background match yours? Are you using jargon or language that is difficult for others to understand?
6. Likenesses and differences: gender, age, interests, politics, race ethnicity, country of origin, class, religion, etc. can effect how much info is given and/or received.
7. Feedback: not everyone prefers to receive feedback the way you do.
8. Technical speech skills: ability to articulate, monitor tone of voice, and be clear.
9. Emotions: positive emotions help good communication. Insecurity, anxiety, negativity, and boredom often create barriers to communication.
10. Non-verbal awareness: remember you are also communicating via your facial expressions and body language. Sometimes these communicate more quickly and stronger than verbal communication.
11. Thought processes: how organized are your thoughts? Are you thinking through what you are communicating before you say it?
12. Prior planning: be clear and concise and your message will come through that much stronger.

ONE-WAY COMMUNICATION:

Where information is being communicated directly with no opportunity for questions or clarification. Written communication falls under this type, or lecture-style class or symposium.

TWO WAY COMMUNICATION:

Where information is being transferred, and questions and clarifying points are made by the receiver. Both parties have an active role, creating better communication on both ends and in the long run.

Which way do you tend to communicate?

Have you tried the other?

Information adapted from Occidental College-Office of Student Life

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