In which of the following communications skills is mirroring an important technique?
A. Nonverbal
B. Communication competence
C. Feedback
D. Organic
HINT: Mirroring is a physical, subconscious reflection of the undertones in a conversation, which builds rapport.
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Answer and Explanation:
The correct answer is A
Mirroring is a subconscious nonverbal behavior, where one person adopts the gesture, body language, or speech pattern of another person during communication, which builds rapport between the sender and the recipient of a message. For example, people who are passionate about a topic lean forward while talking, and the listeners who are interested in the topic cannot help but lean in as well. In the case of a speech pattern, some people whose goal is to fit in with a new group may subconsciously adopt the tempo, volume, and pitch of speech during a conversation. Mirroring happens naturally; even babies use mirroring to start the process of attachment and learning. Mirroring is a natural part of charisma, and the skill can be studied and reinforced in a professional setting. Because mirroring is predominantly nonverbal, this behavior falls under nonverbal communication skills.
Details for each option:
A. Nonverbal
Correct. Nonverbal communication involves using appropriate body language to transmit meaning through gesture, vocal tone, and facial expression. Mirroring and eye contact are also important techniques. The team members should be aware of how they are expressing themselves through what they say and what they don't say.
B. Communication competence
Incorrect. Communication competence is a combination of tailored communication skills that considers factors such as clarity of purpose in key messages, effective relationships, information sharing, and leadership behaviors. The mirroring technique is not considered communication competence.
C. Feedback
Incorrect. Feedback is information about reactions to communications, a deliverable, or a situation. Feedback supports interactive communication between the project manager, team, and all other project stakeholders. Examples include coaching, mentoring, and negotiating. Since the mirroring technique does not provide a response from the perspective of the recipient, mirroring is not considered a feedback skill.
D. Presentations
Incorrect. A presentation is a formal delivery of information and/or documentation. Clear and effective presentations of project information to relevant stakeholders may include progress reports, background information to support decision making, information about project objectives to promote the profile of the project or increase support for the project. The mirroring technique is not considered a formal delivery of a message. Therefore, mirroring would not be considered a presentation skill.
Reference:
A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge, (PMBOK® Guide) – Sixth Edition, Project Management Institute Inc., 2017, Page(s) 384, 363; see also
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mirroring_(psychology)