I recently published a post about using SLANT at work for better communication. But it occurred to me that the majority of the time I talk about this with clients and classes, it centers on the family, so I thought I’d share a bit of perspective for the #FamilyDomain. Effective communication within the family is crucial for maintaining strong and healthy relationships. Using passive constructive responding, where responses are positive but lack genuine engagement, can be damaging in a family setting. It can make family members feel undervalued and ignored, leading to frustration and weakening bonds. Instead, adopting active constructive responding, where responses are enthusiastic and supportive, fosters deeper connections and trust. The SLANT technique is an excellent framework for achieving this.
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 explore how each component can be applied to family interactions.
Sit Up and Look at the Other Person
Sitting up and looking at the other person shows your family members that you value their thoughts and feelings. This simple gesture conveys attentiveness and respect, promoting a sense of closeness and trust.
Look at the Other Person
Maintaining eye contact and looking at the other person while they are speaking indicates your full attention. Eye contact builds trust, shows engagement, and allows you to pick up on subtle emotional cues, making your family members feel valued and understood.
Ask and Answer Authentically
Authenticity in family conversations means being open and honest. Ask meaningful questions and provide genuine responses. This creates an environment of trust and openness where family members feel comfortable sharing their true feelings.
Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal cues play a significant role in family interactions. Nodding, smiling, and maintaining eye contact can make family members feel understood and valued. Using open body language and appropriate hand gestures can further enhance the quality of the conversation, making it more engaging and supportive.
Turn It Off (Eliminate Distractions)
In today’s tech-driven world, eliminating distractions during family interactions is crucial. Turning off or putting away phones, tablets, and other devices signals to your family that they are your priority. This creates an environment where meaningful and uninterrupted conversations can flourish.
Practical Application
Next time you’re having a family meal or spending quality time together, try implementing the SLANT technique. Sit up and maintain eye contact, listen actively, engage authentically, use supportive non-verbal cues, and eliminate distractions. By doing so, you’ll create a more respectful and loving atmosphere, strengthening your family connections.
Call to Action
Give the SLANT technique a try in your family interactions and observe the positive changes it brings. Share your experiences with us, and let’s learn and grow together in fostering better communication in all aspects of life.