The Talk
And so, it was when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teachings, for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
– Matthew 7:28-29
One thing you can be sure of is communication is the key to leading people. Whether it is co-workers or family or a project small or large. Communicate well!
There are standards that you must follow to communicate well.
Be Clear: No one can do what is asked unless the direction and vision are clear.
Be Courteous: We must show respect to everyone no matter who they are or what position they hold.
Be Consistent: Be flexible, but don’t be wishy-washy.
5 Things to Practice for Effective Communication Skills
Body Language
Do not shy away from the person with whom you are speaking. Be sure to maintain a relaxed, but not slouching posture, regardless of whether you are the one speaking or listening. Other things that ensure your body is communicating your attentiveness to the conversation can include:
Making eye contact.
Nodding occasionally to acknowledge a strong point in the conversation.
Standing with hands clasped in front of you, never crossing your arms.
Not displaying nervous ticks such as wringing hands, picking at your nails, or anything that the person communicating with you will view as a distraction from their conversation.
Do not text during a conversation unless you are taking notes of the conversation and let the person know what you are doing. Otherwise, it looks as if you are not paying attention.
Speech and Attentiveness
When speaking, you need to be clear and concise. Speak on important matters directly and do not waste time with long drawn-out stories that will cause your listener’s mind to wander. Make sure you ask whether they understand and be willing to further explain any of your points. Do not expect someone to just “know” what you are saying, even if it is crystal clear in your own mind. In addition, one of the most important aspects of verbal communication is the ability to practice active listening. This is not just actively waiting to talk. Always make mental notes of key points when someone is speaking to you. That way once you are given a chance to speak, you can respond to the most vital issues being dealt with. When others are speaking, try to think about the exact words that they are speaking. If you practice this, you will comprehend and contain 75 percent more of the information that you hear.
Communication Consistency
Maybe your weakness is in the quality or quantity with which you communicate to your employees or people in general. Communication seems to have dwindled to superficial small talk. Great communicators practice the ability of consistent communication by remaining available. Do not be afraid to be the one who voices any concerns or difficulties. However, ensure that you are practicing open and honest communication with those who may depend on you. Be available and bold with tact.
Be sure to leave communication lines open to those who may need to address problems with you. You will find that you prevent the small issues that normally have the habit of becoming large ones by making those in your life aware that you are open to discussing issues at any time.
Patience
During your communications with others always give them time to communicate their issues and concerns as well. Remaining focused on what they are trying to communicate will show them that you are indeed open to assisting with their issues. Many of people’s communication lines tend to break down on the side where impatience is in a rush to get out of the conversation. Since you cannot control the other side, do yourself a favor and take a breath. The conversation you’re involved in is important.
If you are confused as to what someone may be requesting, then repeat back to him or her what you think they said and ask if that is correct. Often this will inspire the speaker to be more in-depth about their needs, which will help you to understand them fully.
Practicing Effective Communication Skills
If someone has communicated a need or an issue to you, then your main priority should be to aid him or her in repairing the problem. Following up on an issue is the only way to convince others whom you need to communicate with that you have listened to them and that their problems or issues are important to you as well.
Practicing strong follow-up will also leave the impression that you are interested and involved in the bigger picture. When people see this commitment, they will know you are open to future communications. This creates a loyal and discerning surrounding that cultivates positive movement and communication. This will develop a strong sense of confidence in those with whom you communicate.
Conclusion
Since the world is so incredibly diverse and communications come in such a wide variety of forms, it is important to know many appropriate and helpful interpersonal skills. By practicing the few suggestions found here, you will find yourself understanding more of what people say and repeating yourself less to other people. Your co-workers and friends will have the confidence to come to you when they find themselves in need. Remember, great communication skills take practice. Do not give up on Day One. Your ability to express yourself will grow daily as long as you apply yourself in improving communication skills.
However it goes deeper, to another level.
Communication Tips
Have an Opinion? Speak Up! The truth people like people who have an opinion and aren’t afraid to speak what’s on their mind. Even if you’re opinion turns out to be wrong, it’s still admired that you spoke up.
Be a Quick Responder. Reacting and responding are totally different. Respond to emails and phone calls in a timely manner. Even if it’s just to say; “Thanks!” or “I got your message and will get back to you soon”.
Focus Your Communications. If you can’t interject anything productive into the conversation, don’t talk at all. When you do have something productive to add, speak up.
Always Be Constructive. Having a constructive attitude towards both good and bad situations portray a good balance of professionalism and humanity. When you understand and recognize that things are tough, but things still need to be done, things get done.
If You Don’t Know, Say So. Nobody has time to listen to rubbish, and more times than not, it can be spotted a mile away. You know… I don’t know the answer to that, but I will find out and get back to you very soon.”
Take Responsibility. If something goes wrong and it’s your fault, or even partially your fault, own up to it and take responsibility. Even though you did something wrong or you made a mistake, by taking responsibility for it, you’ll earn more respect in the long run.
Don’t Show Favoritism. Like anyone, this is about the most annoying type of personality. Chances are, you can identify that people in your life. The cold hard fact is nobody respects them—including you.
Questions to ponder
Do you communicate well?
Do people look to you for direction?
Are you a model of consistency?
Thoughts for the day!
For you to communicate effectively you must follow the standards listed above. The guidance you give must come from the one who gives you clear direction. Who is that?
Always remember, He makes it happen, you make it count!
