The Underrated Communication Skill: Relatability in a Digital Age

Effective communication is the cornerstone of building relationships, whether in personal or professional settings. One skill that often goes unrecognized yet carries significant weight is relatability. This ability to connect with others on a personal level can significantly enhance communication, leading to more meaningful interactions and understanding. In the digital age, where virtual communication is increasingly dominant, the importance of relatability cannot be overstated.

The Power of Relatability

Relatability is the foundation upon which many successful communications are built. A key figure who exemplifies this skill is former U.S. President Donald Trump. Despite personal opinions, Trump has a remarkable ability to charm individuals and gain their trust, as evidenced by a story where the Koch Brothers initially appeared unimpressed but ended up giving him a blank check and numerous promises. Similarly, Joe Biden, another former U.S. President, demonstrates a deep understanding of how people interact and what motivates them, enabling him to bridge divides and forge alliances.

The Importance of Relatability in Virtual Communication

In today's digital landscape, where much of our communication occurs through email, instant messaging, and video calls, the challenge of establishing relatability becomes even greater. Non-verbal cues such as facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice are often lost in these mediums, making it harder for listeners to fully grasp the speaker's message. Therefore, the ability to relate to others through the words we choose and the way we convey them becomes even more critical.

Practicing Relatability in Digital Communication

Here are some daily practices to enhance your relatability in digital communication:

Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage genuine dialogue by asking questions that require more than a simple yes or no answer. This helps foster a deeper connection and allows the other person to share their thoughts and feelings. Show Empathy: Try to understand the perspectives of others and respond with empathy. Acknowledging their emotions and thoughts can make the conversation more meaningful and relatable. Use Personal Examples: Share your own experiences and stories to make the conversation more relatable. This helps build a connection and makes the communication more engaging. Tailor Your Communication Style: Adjust your tone, vocabulary, and approach based on the person you are communicating with. This shows that you are aware of their preferences and values, making the conversation more relatable.

Conclusion

Relatability is not just a nice-to-have skill in communication; it is a vital component that can significantly enhance your ability to connect with others. In the digital age, where virtual interactions are the norm, mastering the art of relatability can make a world of difference in building trust, fostering understanding, and achieving your communication goals.