Tips for encouraging effective communication     We need each other and we need to communicate with each other! This is one of the most noticeable aspects of being human as opposed to many of the other animals on our planet. We are gregarious by nature.    How we interact with each other determines the level of quality that exists in the contained environment. In fact, I believe it is so important, that for many people, it is a key determining factor in how long they stay at a particular job and how well they do in that job.    I have never met a person who does not appreciate and even revel in positive attention and recognition from other human beings. It lifts our spirits and keeps us going even in the toughest times while negative attention through put downs, lack of recognition for achievement and power struggles between fellow employees acts in exactly the opposite manner.    The key to effective communication is recognition that everyone involved is a human being. Each person has their own set of needs to have satisfied. If the people engaged in a communication recognize the other person as a human being, rather than a garbage can for their frustrations and needs to control others, engagements will be very easy.   Once we get past the barrier of equality in the communication forum, there are several other aspects that can be introduced to upgrade the quality of interaction.   If we use for example, a situation where a manager needs to have one of his subordinates perform a task which is not part of his regular duties, we can examine some scenarios that will show various tips for encouraging effective communication.   The first step as the manager that I take would be to get it clear in my mind what the task is that is requiring this particular interaction. If I know clearly the objective, it is easier for me to discuss it with others.   Secondly, I would have already had a good understanding of how this employee communicates including how willing he is to take on new work. If he is a ready and willing participant, he will require a different strategy than a resistant non-participant.   In either situation, it is key to speak to the person in a manner that he will be open to and understands. A person who is looked down upon or is spoken to using words they may not understand will only cause resistance.   Another aspect is to understand the benefits the other will derive from participating in the event. Make sure they are clear and of value to him. It may be as simple as having the opportunity to do something different for a change or as great as a career move.   Most important is to create an environment where the employee feels that they are being valued and recognized for their involvement in the overall scheme.   Lastly, be willing to accept that the employee may just not want to participate in the new opportunity. If this occurs, take the time to fish. Find out why. It could be that he does not understand the situation or it could be that there is another issue beyond the situation that renders him unable to participate. Ask questions. But be subtle and respectful.    Effective communication is not a difficult task. It only requires the people involved to have respect for each other as equal members of society who each have a set of needs that needs to be satisfied. Find the need and satisfy it, then communication is easy!