The inherent differences in the styles of communication of men and women makes this topic interesting to study. The differences in the thinking of men and women get reflected in the way they initiate the communication process. This post points out the gender differences in communication.
The knowledge of gender differences in verbal communication helps in resolving conflicts without much difficulty. It proves to be useful in overcoming communication barriers, maintaining healthy relationship between couples, and also creating a positive environment at the workplace.
Understanding the viewpoint of whom we are conversing with is crucial in day-to-day life and especially at the workplace. It helps save a lot of time that results from misunderstandings which happen during conversations. A cordial relationship between team members can be built by understanding the differences and working on them to resolve conflicts.
Men's Way of Communicating
Any activity that men indulge in is kind of a competition for them. Automatically, the way in which interaction takes place, becomes more of a tussle where they have to win.
It is said that men are more inclined towards setting and achieving goals. It makes them a bit aggressive in nature. This characteristic trait also gets reflected in the way they communicate. Men hardly seek advise or help for the problems they face. Instead, they tend to bottle up their concerns and don't express them freely.
Solving the problems independently and the need to have autonomy are also traits which help in differentiating the nature of men from that of women. It is hence quite common to find a man offering advise rather than listening to others. Men tend to seek respect of their peers. There are many such differences that can be observed in the way men communicate.
Women's Way of Communicating
The major difference which differentiates women from men is that women are inclined towards acceptance.
The characteristic behavior of men to stamp their authority is found lacking in women. A woman doesn't mind listening to advise from others. When women need to take decisions, they are more inclined towards mutual agreement rather than exhibiting a behavior that indicates autonomy/pride (unlike men).
This trait proves to be useful at workplaces where people are expected to take decisions on the basis of consent of team members. Women try to maintain harmonious relations with their colleagues and are more cooperative in nature.
The quality of empathy is pronounced in female behavior and therefore, they possess listening skills that are better in comparison to men.
Differences Resulting from Upbringing
Apart from the inherent nature of men and women, the other factor which influences their style of communication is the upbringing. People expect men and women to speak and behave in a certain set pattern.
For example, it is considered normal for a man/boy to use rough language. Such kind of behavior, if exhibited by a woman, is not accepted by people. Expression of feelings/emotions by girls is considered natural. Boys on the other hand are not expected to cry.
There are many more differences that one can point out in the way men and women communicate. This information should prove to be of great help in resolving conflicts and building healthy relationships.
There is great diversity in the nature of people we interact with, in our day-to-day life. All the conclusions derived about gender differences too are the result of observation and interactions.
Thus, one should also take into account the very nature of a person, irrespective of the gender (moreover, every situation is different). Only then can we think of communicating in a better way.
The points pertaining to gender differences in communication styles presented here should help in understanding the mentality of men and women in a better manner. There are many differences observed in the communication style of men and women. These differences have an effect on their interaction in day-to-day life as well as at the workplace.