You communicate with people every day. Whether you are
presenting a formal business proposal or chatting with an old
friend, develop effective communication skills so your words get
heard.
Steps
- Make sure you have the attention of your audience before
speaking. If you are speaking to a large group, say something like
"excuse me," or "I have something I would like to say." If the
conversation is one-on-one, make sure the other person has finished
their statement before you begin to speak.
- Choose your words carefully. Present your thoughts in a tactful
manner.
- Speak clearly. Don't mumble or race through your
sentences.
- Make sure the tone of your voice is appropriate for the topic
of discussion.
- Make sure the volume of your voice is appropriate for the size
of your audience.
- Captivate your audience with your inflections in your voice as
you deliver your message.
- Keep eye contact. If you are addressing more than one person
then make sure you look at every person fairly. Try to "bring them
in" with your eyes.
- Modulate your voice to give colour to your talk. This takes a
lot of practice. The results can be stunning. Try it.
Tips
- Part of effective communication is being a good listener. If
you want people to listen to you, be sure you are listening to them
as well.
Warnings
- Be careful not to be confrontational when speaking.
- Be careful not to make offensive remarks.
- Be aware of your body language while you are speaking.
- Be careful not to be too pushy. Know that people will not
always agree with what you say.
- Speaking slowly usually makes people concentrate on what you're
saying. Speaking quickly makes it look like you already know that
you won't be listened to, so you try to get all the words in.
- Maintain eye contact
