Communicating Effectively in Small Groups

Remember what a small group is and is not. Groups are made up of individuals who are typically gathered together for a common purpose. In other words, a group is typically not considered a bunch of strangers sitting together on the train. The purpose of a group is usually to gain ideas from one another, listen to the views of the members, and attempt to work towards the desired goal. The main goal of effective small group communication is to accomplish the common purpose.

Be sure to get every member to participate. The most talkative members will naturally contribute the most to any group. Social psychologist Robert Bales determined in the 1950's that 40-50 percent of conversation is made by the most talkative group member, and 25-30 percent by the second most talkative member. Because of this, one of the goals of effective small group communication should be to make a visible effort to include every group member.

If you are leading a group discussion, be open to all views presented. There will always be disagreement and differing views among group members. Group members are individual people with their own opinions, so this is to be expected. Effective speech and small group communication ensures that group members feel safe to share a variety of opinions, and that group members are never considered competitors.

Build trust. Trust is key to effective small group communication. Members will not share what they are really thinking or feeling if they feel that their trust or confidence may be violated. Make sure there is always an atmosphere of security and safety.

Size matters. Some other ideas for effective speech and small group communication are to keep your group at a reasonable size. The ideal small group size is from five to ten members.

Leaders must be careful not to be controlling of the group. They also must be aware of any tendency to monopolize the conversation; they must try to draw all participants into the discussion.

Be aware of body language. Your words are one major part of your speech communication, your body language is the other. What expression is on your face? Are you arms down by your side or folded across your chest? Body language says a lot about what you are truly thinking and feeling.