Today, with new technology and the emphasis on teamwork in
the workplace, communication skills are a most important
trait to develop.
The phrase "communication skills" might sound frightening,
like developing quantum physics skills or gymnastic skills.
Communication skills, however, encompass a few behaviors
that can become very natural with practice.
Here are some guidelines for developing good communication
skills that you can practice anywhere and at anytime:
1: Eye Contact.
Whether you are speaking or being spoken to, looking into
the eyes of the person you are in conversation with can
make the experience much more successful.
Eye contact conveys interest, and encourages your partner to
be interested in you in return. In less intimate settings,
when giving a speech or when in front of several people,
holding the eyes of different members of your audience can
personalize what you are saying and maintain attention.
2: Body Language.
Body language can say so much more than a mouthful of words.
An open stance with arms easily to your side tells anyone
you are talking to that you are approachable and open to
hearing what they have to say.
Arms crossed and shoulders hunched, on the other hand,
suggests disinterest in conversation or unwillingness to
communicate.
Often, communication can be stopped before it starts by
body language that tells people you do not want to talk.
Good posture and an approachable stance can make even
difficult conversations flow more smoothly.
3. Have courage to say what you think!
Communication skills begin with simple communication. You
do not have to discourse of difficult topics to communicate.
Take time each day to be aware of your opinions and
feelings. When you are aware of what you believe on a
certain issue, you can better convey those thoughts to
others.
Individuals who are hesitant to speak because they do not
feel they have worthwhile opinions need not fear: what is
important or worthwhile to one person may not be to another
and may be more so to someone else.
In a world so very big, someone is bound to agree with you,
or to open your eyes to an even deeper perspective. The
courage to say what you think can afford you the
opportunity to learn more than you did before.
4. Speak loudly enough to be heard.
When you are saying what you think, have the confidence to
say it so as to be heard.
An appropriate volume can inform listeners that you mean
what you say, you have thought about what you are saying,
and what you are saying is worth hearing.
An appropriate tone and volume ensure your listeners hear
exactly what you are saying, and decreases room for
misunderstanding.
Communication skills can be practiced every day in settings
that range from the more social to the more professional.
While some people feel the need to take a special college
course on communications, or to attend community lectures
on giving speeches, you might find that these simple
behavior tips can open up new communication opportunities
to you.
New skills take time to refine, but each time you use your
communication skills you open yourself to opportunities and
future friendships.
