Communication is a powerful tool that can help us achieve our goals through persuasion. However, if we don’t know how to use it effectively, we run the risk of closing doors and missing out on many opportunities.
Regardless of the industry we work in, considering some tips to improve our communication skills and knowing how to use them at the right time can lead us to success.
- Make eye contact. Looking into your interlocutor’s eyes will make you appear as a confident person who exudes trust. Your body language will reinforce the stance of interest in the topic you’re addressing.
- Listen before speaking. Misunderstandings often arise from not knowing how to listen or from incessantly interrupting the other person’s conversation to impose your opinions. When interacting, let your interlocutor express all their ideas, mentally note the ones you’d like to reinforce or respond to, and wait for a pause to provide your response.
- Be direct. One way to show respect for others is to be direct in communication. Discard long presentations, unnecessary emails, or cumbersome texts that don’t clearly express what you want to say. Your interlocutor will appreciate your ability to synthesise your ideas for communication.
- Use professional language. Save the use of colloquial language for family moments or gatherings with friends. When facing your boss, a client, or a service provider, use professional language that allows you to communicate freely but appropriately in the workplace context, without using overly technical or complicated words.
- Read. The best way to strengthen our oral and written communication is by reading. Review news and information about your industry, current affairs, and other topics of interest daily. This way, you’ll expand your vocabulary and always have an interesting topic of conversation.
Practising these skills will allow you to connect better with those around you and strengthen your professional appearance.