In this age of emerging technology and rapid scientific progress it sometimes is easy to forget that our society, social fabric and organisations have evolved through our relationships and interactions with each other. Even though we may not always think about it because of all the devices, software and applications we use, we remain deeply reliant on how we connect and relate as human beings.
The ways in which we can connect to others has greatly expanded in recent years and is unprecedented in human history. They make our relationships and interactions more versatile, flexible, convenient, and expansive. They also help us be more efficient and far reaching. Yet, they also pose us with a formidable challenge of truly, genuinely connecting with each other and being empathetic, effective in how we interact and maintain meaningful relationships. Being efficient with technology is great, but it is not the same as being effective, or fluent, in our interactions with one another.
Whether it is through our interactions at home, in our communities or organisations where we work, most of us have plenty of opportunity to strengthen our ability to effectively connect with others for whatever purpose. No matter which generation we belong to. One could argue there is a need to become more fluent in human interaction.
Often people say:” I am talking with people every day, all the time. I know what I am doing so no help needed, thanks.” When you then explore a bit further what opportunities they missed and problems they encounter in their personal and professional lives, often it boils down to behaviours and conversations that could have been better.
In our next few articles we will explore a perspective of what fluency in human interaction – human fluency- can look like for individuals and organisations, and how to increase effectiveness.
Until then, how do you look at your ability of interacting with others?