No matter what we’re doing, effective communication is a vital skill. One method that stands out for enhancing communication is the SLANT technique. Originally used in educational settings, SLANT is an acronym that identifies five key behaviors to ensure active and respectful engagement during conversations. This technique is particularly effective because it emphasizes both verbal and non-verbal communication skills, helping participants to absorb and understand information more effectively.

This is an ideal way to demonstrate Active Constructive Responding (ACR).

What is SLANT?

SLANT stands for:

• Sit up and look at the other person
• Look at the other person
• Ask and answer authentically
• Nonverbal Communication
• Turn It Off

Let’s break down each component and explore how it contributes to effective communication.

Sit or Stand Up Straight

The first step in the SLANT technique is to sit up and look at the other person. This simple gesture conveys an appreciation for their time and shows that you are ready to listen. Good posture and eye contact demonstrate attentiveness and respect, setting a positive tone for the conversation.

Look at the Other Person

Making eye contact and looking at the other person while they are speaking is a powerful non-verbal cue that indicates your full attention. Eye contact helps to build trust, shows that you are engaged, and allows you to pick up on subtle emotional cues from the speaker. It can significantly enhance the depth of the interaction, making the speaker feel valued and understood. Avoiding eye contact or frequently looking away can give the impression of disinterest or distraction. Therefore, maintaining steady eye contact, along with nodding and appropriate facial expressions, can make your communication more effective and meaningful.

Ask and Answer Authentically

Authenticity in communication means being genuine and honest. When you ask questions, make sure they are meaningful and show a true interest in the speaker’s message. Similarly, when answering questions, be honest and transparent. This fosters a deeper connection and encourages open, honest dialogue.

Active listening is the cornerstone of effective communication. It involves not just hearing the words spoken but also understanding the underlying message. Use active listening skills such as:

• Asking clarifying questions: Ensure you understand the speaker’s message by asking questions that prompt further explanation.
• Paraphrasing: Restate what the speaker has said in your own words to confirm your understanding.
• Eliminating barriers: Remove distractions and focus entirely on the speaker.

Active listening helps build trust and ensures that both parties are on the same page.

Nonverbal Communication

Non-verbal communication is essential in shaping how messages are understood, with nodding being a vital aspect of the SLANT technique. However, incorporating other non-verbal cues can significantly enhance interactions. Head gestures like nodding signify agreement and encourage speakers, while tilting the head denotes attentiveness and curiosity, fostering a sense of understanding. Facial expressions such as smiling convey approachability, and raised eyebrows indicate interest, prompting further discussion. Maintaining steady eye contact demonstrates focus and builds trust, whereas using natural breaks prevents it from feeling like staring. Open palms suggest honesty, while gesturing can emphasize points effectively without being overwhelming. Resting hands convey calmness, and leaning slightly forward shows engagement. Subtly mirroring the speaker’s body language fosters connection and empathy, enriching communication exchanges.

Turn It Off (Eliminate Distractions)

In today’s digital age, distractions from televisions, cell phones, smart watches, and computer monitors can significantly hinder effective communication. The final component of the SLANT technique, “Turn It Off,” emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the person in front of you over any technological distractions. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to turn off your smart watch, but it does mean being very intentional about minimizing distractions. For instance, set your phone down with the screen facing away, or turn off your computer monitor during the conversation. These actions signal to the speaker that they have your full attention, enhancing the quality of your interaction and ensuring that both parties are fully engaged.

Why SLANT Matters

Implementing the SLANT technique can transform your communication skills by making interactions more meaningful and effective. Here are some benefits:

• Builds Respect: Demonstrates that you value the speaker’s time and message.
• Enhances Understanding: Ensures that you accurately receive and interpret the speaker’s message.
• Fosters Connection: Creates a more personal and engaging communication experience.
• Encourages Openness: Promotes an environment where honest and open dialogue can thrive.

Putting SLANT into Practice

Next time you find yourself in a conversation, whether it’s a team meeting, a one-on-one discussion, or even a casual chat, consciously apply the SLANT technique. Here are a few steps to get started:

1. Prepare Mentally: Before the conversation, remind yourself to sit up straight, maintain eye contact, and be fully present.
2. Focus on the Speaker: Give your undivided attention to the speaker. Show that you are engaged through active listening and appropriate body language.
3. Engage Authentically: Ask thoughtful questions and provide genuine responses. Show that you care about the conversation and the person you’re speaking with.
4. Practice Regularly: Like any skill, effective communication takes practice. Make SLANT a regular part of your interactions to develop and refine your communication abilities.

By incorporating the SLANT technique into your communication practices, you’ll not only improve your ability to connect with others but also create a more respectful and understanding environment in both your personal and professional life.

Call to Action

Try using the SLANT technique in your next conversation. Notice how it impacts the interaction and share your experiences with us in the comments below. How did the other person respond? What differences did you observe in your communication effectiveness? Let’s learn and grow together, one conversation at a time.

What About The Family Domain?

Click here to read a post about using SLANT to improve communication in the family domain.