- Assertiveness in Communication: Being assertive is necessary to be an effective communicator. This means standing up for your own agenda and not allowing others to impose theirs upon you. Being assertive implies communicating in such a way that people take your words, language, intentions, and ideas seriously. You must be confident, insistent, and persistent. Assertiveness can also be about repeatedly delivering your message until you get what you want.
- Authenticity in Communication: Authenticity involves being true to oneself. This demands a clear understanding of your own values, agendas, and boundaries, and the courage to fight for them. Being authentic might not come spontaneously to most, but taking steps to honor it in communication is critical. It makes your message more effective and prevents the dilution of your ideas.
- Open-Mindedness in Communication: Being open-minded means you are willing to entertain different perspectives, scenarios, and ideas. You should not close yourself off to alternate points of view, even if they are dramatically different from your own. Having an open, receptive mindset not only makes for better communication but also facilitates personal growth.
- Empathy in Communication: Empathy plays a vital role in effective communication. Understanding and connecting with others allow for a cooperative dynamic. Without empathy, there is a lack of understanding, creating a divide in communication. Building empathy improves communication and connection with others.
- Mirror Neurons and Empathy: Mirror neurons, as studied by neuroscientists, enable humans to empathize by allowing them to experience the emotions of other individuals, creating a common ground during communication and fostering a cooperative dynamic. The absence of empathy can lead to communication barriers or lack of resonance with the counterpart's message.
- Importance of Clarity in Communication: Clarity ensures that the communicator's intention aligns with the perception and interpretation of the receiver. Misinterpretation due to lack of clarity in communication can lead to unexpected actions, mistaken beliefs, and can create complications in various contexts such as instructions, business operations, and daily personal interactions.
- Significance of Active Listening: Being an active listener goes beyond merely hearing the spoken words; it also involves engagement through non-verbal cues like nodding, acknowledgment, and asking clarifying questions to make Leo feel heard and reciprocated.
- Strategic Improvement of Communication Skills: To improve one's communication skills, they should identify which of the six pillars - authenticity, open-mindedness, empathy, clarity, listening, assertiveness - they struggle with the most. Leo Gura proposes improvement tactics like reading books, seeking feedback, simplifying vocabulary, and constantly practicing in various situations. He also advocates for participation in organizations like Toastmasters to gain more opportunities for public speaking.
- Continuous Interaction and Practice: Communication proficiency builds over time through consistent interactions and practice, especially in professional settings. Thus, individuals must actively work on improving their communication skills rather than assuming it's a naturally acquired skill.