Becoming successful in your career is deeply rooted in effective communication. Building better communication skills is often an area that can be neglected. Without clearly explaining your ideas, instructions, and objectives, it will lead to frustrations in the workplace. It is important to understand that communication is not simply comprised of the words you use, but also the way you execute non-verbal cues, tone of voice and listening skills. Research shows that our body language makes up 55% of the communication process. The tone of which you deliver your words is 38% of the communication process. That only leaves 7% of the communication process to what you say. In order to develop better communication with others, consider addressing all of these aspects that allow you to express yourself.
Listen:
To build better communication with those around you, active listening is vital. People want to feel that they have truly been heard. One way to improve on hearing what someone is telling you requires eye contact. Repeating the person’s idea back to them in your own words will also show that you are listening and understanding what has been said. Before formulating a response to someone, active listening is key.
Non-Verbal:
The non-verbal cues you use during conversations can make a negative or positive impact on the overall communication with another person. When your body language and words do not match, the other person will find it harder to understand. Some ways that you can increase effectiveness in conversation is to stand or sit with arms unfolded. Keeping hands to the side and assuming a relaxed position will tell those around you that you are approachable. Also, make certain that your facial expressions match what you are saying.
Tone:
By far, the tone in which you deliver information is the most important aspect of effective communication. The words where you place emphasis will be taken as being the most important. Also, the pitch of your voice is important in communicating better. The higher the pitch of your voice, the less authoritative you will sound. Using lower tones in your speech will tell the other person when you are taking an authority role.
Speech:
When entering into conversation with those around you, the words should still be carefully chosen. It is difficult to know what people will remember that you told them. Be sure that everything you say is communicating clearly what you are intending to say.
Taking the time to learn and enhance your overall communication skills will improve your work environment and help you to express yourself better.
Creating good communication skills will pave the way to success in your career goals.
If you have any questions about this article, or about how we can help you enhance your communications, team building, goal setting, performance, leadership, strategy, and / or hiring needs, contact Otis & Tina Bishop!
Thanks for your readership.
Sincerely, Otis & Tina Bishop
Bishop Placement Services
150 Uptown Square suite D Murfreesboro, TN 37129
http://www.bishopplacement.com ~ otis@bishopplacement.com ~ 615-367-6177
