Good communication is generally a matter of give-and-take interactions. When this is in regard to personal communication, basic respect and a sense of equality between both persons are good points to keep in mind. You may know people who believe that they are communicating with you, while what they are actually doing is attempting to convince you to do something, to accept a viewpoint which you disagree with, or to convince you that they are right and you are wrong. While this may have its desired results in some areas, such as business dealings, it is certainly not a "plus" in personal interactions.

You may also know someone who feels communication is "all about" themselves. Surely you have attempted a conversation with a person who loves to talk about himself, endlessly - and you have probably noticed that this is not the most desired form of interaction either. Equally distressing is the person who truly believes good communication is about nothing but talk - and is quite capable of talking about nothing.

You'll make a better impression if you are not loud, egoistic or boring; so what are the alternatives? Good, effective communication is a give-and-take venture. Good, effective communication not only focuses on topics of interest to both persons, but also includes the participation of both persons. Both true listening and speaking are required.

Some people find it necessary to develop good listening skills. If you really want to communicate with the other person, you will have to learn how to listen. You are not truly listening if you just wait until it's your turn to speak!

When you have become more effective at personal communication, this will help you to become more effective with your communications on other levels, also. You will see that the power of speech can be used correctly, or it can be misused; and you will begin to recognize the difference in yourself and in others.

If you are not certain as to whether or not you are good with communication, you can put yourself to the test. When you are in the position of communicating with someone, note how much you are absorbing of what he or she is saying. Are you interested, and are you really listening? Also note whether or not the person appears interested in your words; if he or she seems bored or distracted, perhaps it is time to take a break from your speech and let the other person have a chance.

Effective communication is not difficult; but in many cases it is a skill which needs to be learned and practiced. The benefits will be very positive - to both you and to others!