Approachability – A Communication Skill Check

Believe it or not, this is another beautiful word; not just in the dictionary but also in the business environments and in building relationships.

Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “Approachability” as easy to meet or deal with.

So you have a challenge at your place of work and you find it difficult to meet your boss or team leader to discuss this challenge because you conclude (may be it’s just your thought) that the person’s personality is fearsome. Or, the expected feedback from the person would not be encouraging.

You get the gist… So the little issue grows and gets out of control and becomes a crisis. The question is – whose fault is it?

You perceive that your partner or child is always avoiding you. You wonder why? S/he shows some disconnection or draw back. S/he delays before s/he presents an important topic for discussion or deliberation. Who is to blame? Have you considered that you may be effusing qualities that make you unapproachable. What is your body language?

We must be approachable first!

Before we share or pass blames, think of the image of 5 animals that are approachable. Now think of images of 5 animals that are seemingly not approachable. The point to this test is simple. It is difficult to approach some persons because of the aura or personality they build around them. The type of personality you give off is important for effective communication. It may make or mar your relationships at home or work.

It is your goal to communicate more effectively, thus it is your goal to be approachable first before you expect others to reciprocate. Being approachable always pays off.

“Being approachable is key to building relationships with your colleagues, and to creating a strong team in which trust, confidence and ideas can flow . ”

Mindtools.com – How Approachable are you?

Another word for Approachable is Accessible.

If no one can access you, how then would people communicate with you effectively? Or should I say, how well can you communicate with others effectively. Mindtools.com has this to say in the article – How Approachable Are You?

“Approachability is about being accessible, consciously breaking down perceived barriers, having appropriate body language, and using the right verbal communication and listening skills. ”

Mindtools.com – How Approachable are you?

To build effective communication skills for the business environment, in thriving teams or for social and personal space, you need to ask yourself this question – How Approachable are You?

Click on the button to partake in an assessment now. The assessment is also great in identifying your skill set and where you need to improve.

The next edition on Approachability in the building Effective Communication Skills Series would be very exciting. We should be looking at steps to help us become more approachable.

Speechless was here!