The benefits of being an engaging communicator

The ability to communicate effectively is one of the most important skills you can have, whether that’s in your personal or work life. In fact, recent research indicates that effective and engaging communication can:

• Improve productivity

• Increase morale

• Result in higher employee satisfaction

• Engender greater trust in management

• Aid stronger teamwork

Not everyone is a naturally effective communicator. Some people have the gift, whilst others find communicating hard - meaning that it’s something that needs to be worked at. Whether it’s meetings or presentations, networking or social events, communication underpins everything that we do. I’ve always been a fan of the phrase ‘Communicate with others as you would have them communicate with you', so if you follow this premise, you won’t go far wrong.

What makes a good communicator?

An effective communicator is someone who can easily convey information in a clear, concise and understandable way, which keeps people interested and engaged. But having effective communication skills isn’t just about talking/speaking, it also includes listening, observing, understanding and empathising. And then there’s the written word and non-verbal communication like emails, reports, body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice that need to be taken into account too.

Ways to improve your communication skills

1. Think about what you are going to say/write. Planning and preparation are key to success. Remember who your audience is and structure things accordingly to ensure that you will not upset, offend or alienate them with the language or tone that you are using. Be friendly, open, honest and respectful to help with comprehension and credibility.

2. Listen more and speak less. It’s essential to learn when to speak up and when to keep quiet. I’m not saying that silence is golden, but sometimes shutting up, listening and/or watching can be more helpful.

3. Cut the fluff. Use simple, easy to understand and consistent language and remember to keep it brief and avoid repeating yourself too much. Have a maximum of two or three key messages and then organise them to ensure everything flows naturally, has a sequence, or order and builds towards a logical conclusion.

4. Keep it relevant. Your audience don’t need to know everything. Be focused, to the point and don’t go off at a tangent, or include things that aren’t necessary. A brief message that’s well-delivered will have greater impact and be more memorable too.

5. Talk with people not at them. Don’t assume because an interaction went well for you that the other person (people) felt the same. Be inclusive, encourage open questions, ask for feedback, let them be curious and encourage a two way conversation if possible.

6. Use storytelling and examples. Storytelling creates engagement and connection. Stories make us experience information rather than just consuming it. Whilst the use of real life examples aids understanding and increases information retention.

7. Choose your channel. The four main types of communication that we use on a daily basis are verbal, non-verbal, visual and written. Throughout the course of an average day, we are all likely to use a mix of each type of communication. Make sure that you are employing the right one at the right time for enhanced levels of engagement.

Ask for help

If you’re struggling to connect with colleagues, team members or your manager, get in touch. I can help you to develop really effective, professional communication skills.