ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the nature of our communication, the skills associated with quality communication, and the contextual factors within sport which influence the development of strong working relationships, which are only achieved through clear communication strategies. The linguistic aspect of communication delineates both what is spoken or written, but also how it is spoken or written, through paralanguage and grammatical intonation respectively. The non-verbal aspects of communication, often referred to as cues, encapsulate a wide range of elements such as gestures, touch and body positioning, physical appearance and posture, and facial expressions. Posture and physical appearance can also contribute significantly to the impression formed by others. The ability to understand how others identify with and interpret the world assists people in understanding their actions; therefore, the skilled development of what some researchers term ‘interpersonal constructs’ is critical to facilitating learning within any coaching environment.
