1. WHAT TYPE OF COMMUNICATOR ARE YOU?

2.  Only 10% of communication is the words we say  The other 90% consists of: tone of voice and body language.  Communication also involves listening.  Barriers to communication may involve: image and identity issues, unrealistic expectations, lack of trust, prejudice, gender stereotyping, experiences

3.  PASSIVE Inability or unwillingness to express thoughts or feelings Don’t stand up for themselves or defend beliefs  AGGRESSIVE Try to get their way through bullying or intimidation Do not consider rights of others Attack the other person, not the problem in arguments

4.  PASSIVE-AGGRESSIVE Appear passive on the surface, but are really acting out of anger in a subtle, indirect, or behind-the-scenes way  ASSERTIVE Expressing thoughts or feelings clearly & directly without hurting others Defend attitudes and beliefs, respect rights of others

5.  SKILLS NECESSARY: SPEAKING, LISTENING, AND BODY LANGUAGE  MAKE SURE YOUR TONE AND BODY LANGUAGE MATCH YOUR WORDS  GOAL IS TO USE ASSERTIVE COMMUNICATION  USE “I” MESSAGES TO CONVEY YOUR FEELINGS WITHOUT BLAMING OR NAME- CALLING