Communication is not just what you say, it is what you do as well. Being able to communicate effectively means that you can articulate your thoughts and ideas and use non-verbal communication to your benefit.
Here are some ways that you can use both verbal and non-verbal cues to enhance your communication skills.
What Is Business Communication?
It has always been well-known that being able to speak in public effectively, as well as to your peers and superiors, is a vital part of being successful in the workplace. Public speaking can be daunting to most, even those who have been in the workforce for a long time, but especially for those who are just starting.
What business communication is not!
Business communication is not only being able to communicate with your professional peers efficiently, but it is also all the non-verbal communication that goes along with that. Becoming more aware of how you communicate non-verbally will help you become a more effective communicator and help you overcome the anxiety that is linked to public speaking.
Verbal and non-verbal communication go hand in hand, so it is essential to understand how they are connected and how they both help you communicate.
Non-verbal Communication Tips
You have probably heard that a handshake can tell you a lot about a person. Having a great handshake is an excellent way to boost how others view you. A firm handshake portrays confidence and likability.
It is also important to be aware of how you are using your hands and legs when communicating. Constantly fidgeting or touching your face makes you look nervous, and can take away from what you are saying, which is what you want people to be paying attention to.
Verbal Communication Tips
Non-verbal cues are an important addition to what you are saying, but the substance and delivery of how you are communicating are equally important. Eye contact is always stressed as one of the essential things when interviewing or talking to superiors at work, but it cannot end there.
Framing your words in a positive way rather than constantly apologizing is a great way to communicate effectively while portraying yourself in a better light at the same time. For example, instead of saying, “I’m sorry for the delay,” say, “Thank you for your patience as I get back to you.”
This shift will leave the person you are talking to, thinking less about the fact that something was late and more about your positivity. Empowering yourself and others is a great way to boost your communication.
Asking questions is also a critical part of communication both among coworkers and between you and your supervisor. Asking for clarification on what expectations or guidelines are shows that you are listening to what the other person is saying and helps reduce the probability of errors in the future.
What You Should Take Away
Just like any other skill, business communication is something that you must continue to work at. No one goes into the work field as a perfect communicator; it is developed over time. This short guide is a great place to get started but should not be your final destination on your way to becoming the most effective communicator that you can be.
