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if the other person understands. You assume that all that has been said is understood. But

you can’t afford to take that for granted. The person may just nod the head without really
understanding.

Being vague can also result in miscommunication. It is about not giving enough details.
Over-explaining also creates confusion and overburdens people with too much information.

Last but not the least, poor body language. Closed arms, averted eye contact, poor posture
can convey the wrong message.

So how do we avoid miscommunication?

• The first step is to speak clearly without any assumptions.

• The next step is to check with the person to make sure that
they have understood.

• The third step is to be succinct. Avoid speaking in circles.
Get to the point quickly.

• Next, avoid blaming anyone.

When there is a miscommunication, sort it out. Own responsibility if you are the reason
for it. The best way to avoid this is to think before you speak.

• Above all, be mindful of how you are holding your body and what unspoken message it
might be sending to the other person, along with the choice of words you use and the tone
of voice.

Miscommunication is a part of communication just as missing a tone or note is a part of
learning to play music. It’s normal. It’s natural. There’s nothing wrong with us because we
miscommunicate at times.

However, if you work on avoiding miscommunication, you can build trust and improve the
quality of relationship with everyone around you.

Word Power

designated: specifically allotted hulk: large or heavy (person)

wrestler: a person who does wrestling as a sport glared: stared
bully: person who intimidates others martial arts: sports for self-defence or attack
confront: come face to face with an intention to argue apologized: said sorry
mentor: advisor or guide misinterprets: misunderstands
hasty: in a hurried manner assumptions: suppose or think that something is
rushed: hurried true or certain to happen
vague: unclear averted: avoided or prevented

posture: the position in which one sits or stands succinct: short; brief
mindful: aware of

77 Arrow - English Plus-8