So you want to improve how you communicate. There are different things you can do to deliver your verbal messages in a clear and concise way. Have a read.
How many of these best practices do you follow?
Do you listen to hear? We’re sometimes distracted by our surroundings when we’re having a conversation. Good communication means staying focused on the speaker and showing your interest. Don’t think about what you want to say next or worse, pull out your phone or write yourself a note. Listen intently without interruption.
Do you make eye contact? This doesn’t mean staring down the speaker. By maintaining eye contact you’re building trust and demonstrating your interest.
Do you make yourself clear? I’m a believer of plain language. Using plain language isn’t only about using simple easy-to-understand language. It also means avoiding things like acronyms and technical or business jargon. All jargon!
Do you watch for body language? Body language is one clue that you’re losing your audience. A good approach to keep them engaged is to include them in the conversation. Ask questions. Ask for audience participation, maybe a show of hands. At the same time, ensure your own body language demonstrates interest. Smile. Walk around. Use useful hand gestures.
If someone is shifting or slouching in their chair, they may be losing interest in what you have to say. They’re now thinking about the next break. If there’s yawning during a presentation, you’ve lost your audience’s attention.
Do you know your audience? When delivering your message take time beforehand to know your audience. What level of understanding or interest do they have in the topic. If you plan to talk about advances in medicine to a group of teachers, they may lose interest quickly unless you tailor what you have to say in a way that’s relevant to their world.
Practice getting to the point. Not every conversation needs a lengthy answer. Although most people will be patient, respond to the question first. You can follow up by asking if the listener needs more information or has any questions. This can lead to an engaging conversation and show the listener you’re interested.
Build your confidence
There are many ways to improve your communication skills and build confidence.
- You can practice your presentation or messaging in front of a mirror to witness your body language and tone. This helps you build confidence, after all, practice makes perfect.
- Reading is a great way to grow your vocabulary and method of expression. Creative language, used by many authors, makes listening more enjoyable.
- Look for networking resources where there are opportunities to engage in conversation. There are also groups like International Toastmasters that provide opportunities to learn and practice leadership, communication and public speaking skills.
You can never go wrong when it comes to enhancing your communications skills. Haynes on Communication is here to help you. Let’s chat.
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