Resolving Interpersonal Conflict

Here’s a typical example of conflict between friends:

Kaka and Terry were from the same department and they had several modules in common. One of the modules was programming methodology and students taking this module have to put in a huge amount effort to do well. The module consists of a practical examination where students have to solve a problem within certain period of time using computer software.

When it came to the practical examination, Kaka was struggling to solve the problem even after intense preparation. He was very upset and walked out the examination room with a heavy heart. Meanwhile, Terry felt that the exam question was very easy and was able to solve it. He walked out the examination room with joy. When Kaka met Terry outside, the first thing that Terry would share with Kaka was how easy he found the exam question to be, without even noticing the facial expression of Kaka.

Now, Kaka who was already in a very bad mood was provoked by Terry and his first reaction was to stare at him. But he then decided to suppress his anger, keep quiet and let Terry continue. Even though this did not result in any verbal conflict, it affected Kaka and Terry’s relationship without Terry’s knowledge. Kaka was very upset by Terry’s inconsiderate comment and has decided to stop talking with him until he’s able to forget that.

In this case, do you think Kaka should tell Terry about his feelings after listening to his callous comment? Do you think Terry is wrong by telling his friend his opinion of the examination? How should Terry respond if he knew that Kaka was upset at him?

Why effective communication skills are important to me?

Communication is critical in our daily interaction with people yet it is often being neglected. In my opinion, there are several reasons why we need to communicate effectively.

Conveying a message clearly and unambiguously is important especially to students like us. In NUS, I am actively involved in co-curriculum activities (CCA) and academic group projects which would require good interpersonal communication skills. Honestly, the lack of effective communication skills has hindered my contribution to group projects and CCA. Misunderstanding of messages has caused several serious setbacks such as project delay. Therefore, effective communication will be a crucial skill for me in order to complete a group project or assignment efficiently and correctly.

Next, bad communication skills could result in conflicts especially between friends and couple. For instance, a speaker who is not able to communicate effectively could make the receiver felt offended and thus trigger a conflict. I did experience quite a number of arguments in the past with friends or family members which were due to communication problems. It took certain period of time to get the relationship back to recover.

Finally, effective communication skill is vital so as to excel in future career. In today highly competitive environment, an excellent academic result will not be adequate to lend you a hand in career development. What is most crucial is the ability to communicate effectively so as to express and promote you to your boss or interviewer. Besides helping us to secure a position in company, outstanding communication skills could also help to build up rapport with colleagues and higher administrative officers.

In conclusion, communication is essential in daily life and it should not be ignored. In my opinion, it will be one of the most vital elements which could determine my achievement in life. That's the main reason why I am taking Es2007S; to learn how to communicate professionally.