BackWho you’re talking to dictates what you say. Review our Communication Styles if you haven’t already. And remember: These examples show communication skills, and do not indicate correct or incorrect viewpoints.
Choose the communication style of the person you’re speaking to:
If you hear them say…
“So you want everyone to still be isolating at home?”
👍 Try this…
“I’m not saying we should all still be home. Let me clarify my thinking here.”
- Stay calm and offer some context for your viewpoint.
👎 Avoid this…
“Don’t put words into my mouth.”
- Don’t take the bait. Defensiveness breeds defensiveness.
If you hear them say…
"Why do you think the COVID vaccine is bad for everyone?"
👍 Try this…
“It sounds like you think I don’t want anyone to get the shot. It’s more about why I don’t think it’s right for me.”
- Acknowledge the real point the other person is making and explain your viewpoint.
👎 Avoid this…
“Why do you think the vaccine is right for everyone?”
- Don’t make assumptions. Instead, acknowledge that the decision to get a COVID vaccine is complex and personal.
If you hear them say…
“So you’re saying you don’t care if you get people sick?”
👍 Try this…
“That’s not where I’m coming from, so let’s stop arguing about something I don’t believe.”
- If they continue to mischaracterize your position, find a respectful way to exit the conversation.
👎 Avoid this…
“Right. I really want grandma to die from COVID.”
- Using sarcasm means that the Defender got under your skin. Defenders are usually better than you at sarcasm.
Additional communication styles...