Let’s talk about communication. We know that this is a vital part of any good team dynamic– and extraordinarily important in regards to how we interact with customers and our co-workers. Communication is something most people intrinsically know about, but few seem to fully understand. Recently, we’ve been noticing how some tend to talk more for themselves instead of engaging with others. Learning the right way to talk with others and not to others will go a long way in all aspects of your life.
We came across an article with five “quick and simple ways to communicate better” that really resonated with all that we have been thinking about of late. Let’s discuss those tips, shall we?
- Never Talk Over Others- It can be quite difficult to wait to say something, especially when you’re excited about it. We get it, you have a lot to say and you want to share, but it is important to let the other person finish speaking before you start. Sometimes it can feel like your thought is so vital it has to be said right then and there, but that is disrespectful to the other person. It can even seem kind of rude, so do the best you can to wait your turn in a polite manner.
- Don’t Finish Other’s Sentences- To be honest, we all engage in this every once and awhile. When you are having a particularly engaging and interesting conversation, you will want to jump in and express your solidarity with that person speaking. This is fine here and there, but when you are constantly finishing someone else’s sentence, it comes across as you interrupting them. We have a natural tendency to try and predict what will come next, especially in regards to conversations; we have to try and step out of that, however. Resist that urge and just let that person explain what they actually want to say.
- Get to the Point- We all know that one person– or maybe we are that one person– who can talk for an hour about anything from the color of a tree to the hegemonic patriarchal society; they just tend to go on and on and on. Now, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, to be able to speak about something for a long period of time, but when it turns into blatant rambling, it’s time to move on. Keep it concise and to the point and you will get very far in your communication skills. If you get the main points and details out first, you can get into the chit-chat stuff after without making the other person feel locked into the conversation.
- Listen-A lot of times we ask questions with questions and just impatiently wait for our turn to talk. It’s time we step out of that mindset and learn to truly listen to what other people are saying. This means changing your body language as well. Try not to cross your arms or seem closed off. Be open and receptive to what the other person is saying. It is important to ask clarifying questions when appropriate too.
- Maintain Eye Contact- Nothing is worse than talking to someone and watch their eyes roam around the entire room, feeling like they’re not listening at all. It’s not a great feeling. We talked about body language and this has everything to do with that. A lot of good conversation is non-verbal. Eye contact shows you are interested and alert. It is important to give them the attention you would expect when you’re speaking.
Remember these things and you will go far in your conversation skills. Conversing with respect will help you delight your customers and engage your team.
Recent Comments