Do you remember the telephone game?

In school, you and your classmates try to pick a phrase and “pass it on” by whispering it to the person next to you. Then the phrase is passed from person to person until the last person announces the phrase. How much did the phrase change during the game? As people relay message from one person to the other the message will often be distorted.

While the game is a lot of fun. It teaches us important lessons.

• If you do not receive information from a reliable source, you may not get the correct information. It turns into gossip.
• If you do not produce information properly, it will not be received as planned

Communication skills are vital to success in your personal life and your career. Poorly delivered messages can turn into misunderstanding, frustration, or even a disaster.

By practicing communications, you will understand more of what people say. Your family, friends, and co-workers will have the confidence to come to you when they find themselves in need.

What are the keys to clear communication?

Proper Speech

When speaking, be clear and concise. Speak on important matters directly and do not let the listeners mind wander. Make sure that you are certain they understand and further explain any points necessary. Do not expect someone to “know” what you are saying. Do not “ASS”ume.

Listening

A key to verbal communication is listening. Not just waiting to speak. If you want to really listen to someone, make mental notes of key points when someone is speaking to you. What you would like to say should come second to understanding. When you have a chance to speak, you can respond to the most vital issues. When others are speaking, focus on the exact words people are saying. This will help you comprehend more information and have a more successful conversation.

If you are confused, repeat what you think they said and ask if that is correct. This inspires the speaker to clarify their needs, which will help you to understand.

Consistent Communication

Great leaders practice the ability of consistent communication. Each one of us has a different approach to how you portray a vision. Find your own voice. Then practice consistency. The consistence of your approach will help your family, friends, and coworkers comprehend your information more easily. Using a consistent approach can also make your tones more successful.

Patience

During your communications give others time to communicate. Stay focused on what they are trying to communicate and stay open to assisting with their issues. Communication lines tend to break down where impatience gets in the way of the conversation. Every conversation you are involved in is important!

Practicing Communication Skills

When someone communicates an issue to you, your main priority should be to solve the problem. Following up with a problem is the only way to convince people you have listened to them and that their problems or issues are important to you as well.

Practicing consistent follow-up will leave the impression that you are involved in the bigger picture. People will learn that you are open to future communications. This makes you loyal! Other will be confident they can rely on you.

Business Communication Success

Both written and verbal communication skills are of utmost importance in business. Communication skills boost you or your teams’ performance because they provide clear information and expectations to help manage and deliver excellent work.

• Leave open communication lines to those who need you. You can prevent the small issues that normally can become large ones by leaving open lines of communication.
• Make rules. Make sure people in your business understand what they should and should not be saying.
• Create an open-door policy. Make sure employees can talk with management at any time.
• Give feedback. Be genuinely interested in issues, comments, and concerns.
• Communicate the future. Update employees regularly about company goals and vision.

“Communication is a skill that you can learn. It is like riding a bicycle or typing. If you’re willing to work at it, you can rapidly improve the quality of every part of your life.” Brian Tracy