The ability to communicate effectively in the business world is a key component of how valuable you are as an employee. Whether you’re an entry-level employee or a senior-level manager, you need to be able to get your message across to your audience. If you’re lacking in this area, you may need to take classes or hire a business speech coach to help you improve.
Listen as Much as You Talk
When someone is trying to give instructions or get an important message across, they usually focus on what they’re saying. However, the more important the message is, the more they need to focus on listening to ensure others understand what they’re saying.
Miscommunication is one of the biggest issues in workplace interactions. One person says something, and the second person hears something else. Sometimes, it can be a difference in personality. Other times, an accent may be the cause of the issue. Whatever the reason behind the miscommunication, it can be prevented by listening to how others respond to what you say.
Communicate with Tact
How you say something is just as important as what you say. While cultural differences are one instance of where you may need to be careful with how you communicate, you need to be mindful even when talking to co-workers or employees in the same office.
Most people don’t try to be insensitive, but they may fail to understand how their words impact someone else. Pay attention to how your words could hurt someone even if that’s not your intent. A speech coach can help you learn how to use the right words and avoid those with negative connotations.
Speak Positively
Even when you must deliver negative information or news, you should try to be as positive as possible. When this negative information is about the listener, it’s called constructive criticism when delivered correctly.
Most people are more open to what you have to say if you handle it in the right way. If you’re one of those people who always see the glass as half empty, you may need to work on your positive speaking. However, you will find you’re more effective in your communications once you master this skill.
Be Specific
To prevent miscommunication, you need to say what you mean and mean exactly what you say. Too many times, people are general in their conversation. They may not realize others don’t know what they’re talking about or they may not want to be too direct. However, you leave room for interpretation if you aren’t specific enough in what you say.
If you want to be more effective in your communication with co-workers, employees, customers or vendors, you should follow these tips. Avoid a lot of misunderstandings and get more accomplished when you learn how to communicate better. If this is an area where you struggle, you may want to consider hiring a business speech coach who can work with you on speaking more effectively.
Claudette Roche is an speech coach in the Vero Beach, FL area. She teaches foreign and American accents to actors and business persons/executives. In 2010 she was named as one of The Top 5 Voice Coaches by Hollywood Weekly Magazine. theaccentcoach.com
https://www.theaccentcoach.com/
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