Regardless of how well two individuals may be matched, a lack of communication or repetitive misunderstandings can cause problems, and at its worst, can severely hinder or destroy the relationship.
Mind Tools Ltd. has created a “How Good Are Your Communication Skills” quiz to test how effectively an individual crafts, delivers, and interprets messages. It provides test takers with a score and description, as well as detailed feedback on individual skills and shortcomings.
The Mentoring Partnership of Southwestern Pennsylvania also has a “Helpful Communication Skills” piece that identifies and explains four communication skills: active listening, “I” messages, paraphrasing, and open-ended questions.
Gender-specific communication techniques are another facet of communicating effectively. The U.S. Department of Education Mentoring Resource Center has a fact sheet “Gender-Specific Approaches in Mentoring,” which explains social and cultural differences in boys and girls and offers practical strategies to best connect with each gender.