Have you ever been distracted while speaking with another person – whether in person or while speaking on the phone?

If you are speaking on the phone, you may be tempted to check and respond to emails. If you are in a face-to-face conversation, you may be tempted to check your smart phone or just be distracted by your thought processes – so many things to do, so little time. Due to our busy lifestyles, we seem to need to constantly multi-task. But is that the best way to communicate with others?

Do you think that the person you are communicating with will pick up on the cues that you unconsciously send that you are not giving them your full attention? Yes, they will.

In her TEDx Talk, Brené Brown discusses how at a neurobiological level, we want to make connections with others. We are wired to connect. It gives purpose and meaning to our lives, no matter what we do.

How does this relate to building rapport with team members? A busy mind cannot be in the moment. So it is important to focus on the individual that you are speaking with if you want to make a meaningful connection.

Benefits

Here are three benefits for your communication when you focus on 'being in the moment'.

1. You will be able to pick up both verbal and non-verbal cues that you could otherwise miss.
2. Your team member will feel listened to and valued if they feel that you are giving them your undivided attention. This in turn will assist in increasing commitment and loyalty to the team and organisation.
3. You will learn more about the motivators of those that you work with, which will be a major benefit for you in becoming a more effective communicator.

The effect of multi-tasking

Studies have found that when we multi-task, our decision-making process can be affected. The brain is the ultimate multi-tasker. It computes millions of messages from neurons at a single time. Just like any other muscle, it can be taxed and become tired. Known as executive function, the brain's ability to make multiple decisions can easily tire it out thus making it a less-effective decision maker.

So to be more effective in your communication, remain focused in the moment.

How do you overcome symptoms of a busy mind?