How can you overcome communication barriers in a CPS session?

1 Understand your audience

Before you start communicating your ideas, goals, or feedback, you need to understand who you are talking to and what they expect from you. Consider their background, preferences, needs, and motivations. How familiar are they with the problem and the solution? What are their main concerns or questions? How do they like to receive information? By understanding your audience, you can tailor your message and tone to suit them and avoid misunderstandings or confusion.

2 Use simple and clear language

One of the most common communication barriers is the use of jargon, acronyms, or technical terms that are not understood by everyone. To avoid this, use simple and clear language that is easy to follow and comprehend. Explain any unfamiliar terms or concepts and give examples or illustrations if possible. Avoid using too many words or sentences that can distract or confuse your listeners. Keep your message concise and focused on the main points.

3 Listen actively and empathetically

Communication is not only about speaking, but also about listening. To communicate effectively in a CPS session, you need to listen actively and empathetically to what others are saying. Active listening means paying attention, asking questions, clarifying doubts, and summarizing key points. Empathetic listening means showing respect, curiosity, and openness to different perspectives and emotions. By listening actively and empathetically, you can build rapport, trust, and understanding with your team members and stakeholders.

4 Encourage feedback and participation

Another way to overcome communication barriers in a CPS session is to encourage feedback and participation from everyone involved. Feedback helps you evaluate and improve your ideas, processes, and outcomes. Participation helps you generate more diverse and creative solutions and foster a sense of ownership and commitment. To encourage feedback and participation, you need to create a safe and supportive environment where people can share their opinions, suggestions, and concerns without fear of judgment or criticism. You also need to acknowledge and appreciate their contributions and address any issues or conflicts constructively.

5 Use multiple communication channels

Finally, you can overcome communication barriers in a CPS session by using multiple communication channels to convey your message. Depending on the situation and the audience, you can use different modes and formats of communication, such as verbal, written, visual, or digital. For example, you can use a presentation, a report, a diagram, or a video to explain your problem and solution. You can also use various tools and platforms, such as email, phone, chat, or video conference, to communicate with your team members and stakeholders. By using multiple communication channels, you can increase the reach, clarity, and impact of your communication.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?