To effectively communicate, there are certain nuances and intricacies that must be given due attention by the speaker. When we say 'effective communication', there is a need for us to consider 2 basic things - the words and its impact. Words have the power to drive any conversation in a positive or negative direction based on the effect it has on the receiver. To be excellent in communication, you have to make sure that you convey your ideas without compromising the importance of the effect it has on either party involved.
Here are some of the tips to keep in mind!
Say "Thank you" the proper way!
When saying "Thank you", most of us have the habit of letting it slip out quite often with the intention of sounding 'polite'. Most people successfully achieve that tag as well. It is, however, important to understand that over doing it as a mere habit can take the sincerity away from it. "Thank you" is not just any reply but a phrase that has significant effect on the receiver. The foremost and simplest ones being it makes them feel happier and acknowledged; that's why, it is important to make sure that it sounds as genuine as possible.
So how do we achieve that? The answer is Simple! - Personalize it! In other words, give reason.
For instance, when your colleague realizes that you have been stressed out all day long and offers to stay up and help you, saying "thank you for going out of your way to help me" instead of a simple 'Thank you' will make your gratitude sound more sincere and appreciative.
Listen (especially when there is a difference of opinion)
Before you jump out there to tell people your opinion and keep reiterating it like a parrot; stop and listen! Listen for two reasons - 1) The other person also has something important to say. Remember that we are not the only ones with knowledge and experience; Always have the thought that you might benefit from listening to their perspective. 2) Let them have their moment in spotlight. There's a high chance that the person opposite to you might realize that they themselves do not have a structured understanding of their argument. Sometimes letting people speak and listening without interrupting will make you choose your arguments and clearly counter it, if neccessary.
So, what happens when we don't listen - There's gonna be an obvious overlapping of voices, slowly increasing the tension in the room, making everyone involved lose composure (not an ideal setting for effective communication). Sometimes, you don't win an argument by shouting your point-of-view loudly across the room but by keenly listening to what the other party has to say.
Cautiously remove your fillers
'Fillers', as the name suggests are used as a compensation for the time in-between your words. Fillers are those umm... like... you see... uhhh... and so on that you subconsciously use while thinking about your next point in context. Although it is widely used and are even encouraged by some language trainers, it is one of those subtle things that could bring down the quality of your communication, significantly. They instigate the thought that you might be a little less prepared for the 'occassion' especially if it's an official one. The use of it might also suggest that you lack clarity in your discussion and make you seem underconfident - That is certain to take away the effectiveness from your communication.
Inorder to remove something as ingrained as fillers from your speech you have to control your pace (you can read about it from our blog "5 secrets to speaking confidently in English") and maybe try recording yourself while speaking as it will bring more awareness to the fillers that you use in particular.
Keep it respectful!
The aim of communication is to exchange ideas, information or sometimes to reach a conclusion for the topic in discussion in an effective manner. This can be achieved only when due respect is given to the ideas and thoughts of every person involved, irrespective of where each party stands in the hierarchy. . Ofcourse, some people might try to say things without any substance, which might call for some extra patience while listening. Even in such cases, the counter argument mustn't be devoid of respect and acknowledgement; and lastly, if you are the one at fault, respectfully accept it!
On the other hand, talking down to someone can create a very hostile environment hindering any kind of productivity that can otherwise be achieved through the conversation. Interpersonal communication thrives when everyone involved feels welcomed and appreciated for their inputs.
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