Improving Communication Skills

It's impossible not to communicate. Everything we do, whether we speak up or keep quiet is communication. And as no man is an island, we can't really avoid relating with other people. The very best we can do is make certain we control the message we send, something we can accomplish by improving communication skills.

How can one go about improving communication skills?

• Verbal vs. Non-Verbal Communication

  First off, it's important to note that communication isn't purely oral.

  Non-verbal communication, such as gestures, tone of voice, pacing, and a person's general disposition, is as important - if not more important - then spoken words. The written word is also obviously communication, and in the fast-paced world of emails and text messages, becomes equally important.

• Context as Part of the Message

  Your messages are either direct (face-to-face) or indirect; to one person or more; and are sent through various media: phone, letter, email, presentations, etc.

  Improving communication skills on one type of communication doesn't mean improving on other types. Example: working on your face-to-face interactions with people won't necessarily reflect on your interactions with people on the phone. Although there are basic principles that apply across media, it's important to consider the nuances of the medium involved in order to minimize barriers to communication.

• Be clear.

  You are your first barrier to communication. If your point isn't clear it won't be understood the way you want it to be. Make the message as clear as possible. Go through all the details you need to go through at the time you are relaying the message. If possible, confirm people's understanding of it. Allow people to ask questions and clarifications or at the very least, make yourself available to answer them should they arise.

  Always be prompt answering. Nobody likes getting a different reaction or result because the message wasn't understood. Improving communication skills means improving how you craft your own messages.

• Listen and understand.

  Communication is a two-way street. You're a receiver of messages just as much as you are a sender. Listen attentively. Don't allow yourself to get distracted. Don't assume you know what others want to say and finish their thoughts for them. Confirm your understanding of the message.

• Know the limitations of the medium.

  A bad reception makes a good news report on TV useless. If it's possible to use a more straight-forward means of communication, chose that. Chances are, a phone call is going to be more efficient than an email (unless of course, the message has plenty of specific details which are better written). If you're using an impersonal medium, it's best to ask (and give!) acknowledgement of receipt.

• Resolve conflict or better yet, avoid it!

  Conflict is inevitable in communication. It arises when your message contradicts the receiver's thoughts, sentiments and wants. Resolving conflict means applying the clarity and understanding mentioned above. Or better yet, avoid it in the first place by using non-aggressive, self-righteous language that doesn't invite an unreceptive or defensive disposition.

At the end of the day, improving communication skills means constantly working on basic etiquette - proper language and courtesy. Good manners is universal and working on it will go a long way in improving your communication skills.

More info on communication skills

• Interpersonal communication skills
• Succeed professionally by paying attention to your business communication skill
• Effective workplace communication
• How to improve communication skills
• Leadership communication skill
• Professional communication skills
• Professional telephone etiquette
• Some exercises to improving communication skills