There’s a reason why people say communication is key. It’s because communication is how we connect to others on a daily basis. It’s how we express our thoughts, feelings, and ideas to the people around us, and it’s also how we come to understand them.
Unfortunately, not all of us have the ability to convey our message clearly. The good news is communication is a skill that we can all possess if we are willing to learn and practice! Here are some tips from The Recruitment Alternative to help improve your communication skills:
Listening
Paying attention and actively listening to someone supports good communication. It can be easy to get distracted when having to listen to others. However, learning how to listen in the right way can be a game changer. You can repeat back what the other person is saying by using keywords or phrases which shows the speaker that you are paying attention and understand them. It also provides an opportunity to clarify things if you are mistaken. Be sure not to talk over someone, wait till they’re finished first. This shows respect and sets the tone for the conversation.
Ask Questions
Building on from listening, asking questions is very important. It’s one of the ways we learn and better our understanding. Asking questions can help avoid miscommunications or misunderstandings. It’s always ok to ask questions!
Body Language
Learning to read body language effectively can be a very useful skill to develop. The way we position our bodies when we talk is within its self a form of communication. Our body language can send a message to the person you’re talking to. For example, if you are standing there with your arms crossed tight and tensing your body this shows defensiveness. Even though you may be nodding and smiling. Some simple techniques can be maintaining eye contact, nodding occasionally as you’re listening etc.
Get To The Point
The best way to achieve clarity is to be clear and to the point. When we know we are going to be talking and listening to others it’s best to be prepared in advance. Have your part to contribute ready to go so that you can provide clear and appropriate information. If you waffle on and never really get to the point or take a long time to get there, it can seem like you don’t know what you’re talking about.
Take Notes
One thing we hear often is “I don’t remember” or “I forgot that part”. This is why we always recommend taking notes when possible to ensure nothing is forgotten. It can be hard to remember absolutely everything, especially when a lot of information is being presented at once that we have to listen to. If you are unable to take notes during, its usually a great idea to make some dot point notes directly after.
Email or Phone Communication?
Sometimes it is better to pick up the phone. If you are communicating via email with someone and you find you have a lot to say it may be worth calling them. This can avoid any tone miscommunications or overall confusing as there was too much information noted. Following it up with an email with your key points discussed as a reference point for both parties.
Be sure to check out The Recruitment Alternative’s job board for new employment opportunities. Also, take a look at our job seeker help center for more tips and suggestions to assist you on your job seeking journey.
