Use Verbal Communication Skills Effectively at Work
Verbal Communication not only involves speaking, but it also involves writing skills. Therefore, we have to use our verbal skills not only in face-to-face meetings … speaking and texting on the phone, online video conferencing, emails…all are part of verbal communication. To stand out at our workplace, we need to work on all of our verbal skills, to excel. Of course, non-verbal skills like listening skills and empathy are equally important but in this article, we can discuss verbal communication.
Some key pointers for us to bear in mind are:
1. Clarity: Be clear and concise in your message. Use simple language and avoid jargon or complex terminology, especially when speaking to people who may not be familiar with the topic. While texting and emailing in business groups, follow all etiquettes and rules as determined by the company guidelines.
2. Follow non- verbal cues: Make sure the timing of your communication is right. In business communication there’s seldom any room for surprises. We need to make an appointment and present agendas for a meeting. It is not polite to make phone calls late into the night without taking permission. In short, our behavior pattern should always be such that the person or people we are communicating with,
are comfortable and open to engage with you.
Therefore, if we barge into an office without appointment, pester clients with incessant messages and phone calls, go late for meetings and so on, people may wish never to engage with us and the outcome will be the opposite of what we desire.
In meetings and group discussions we should avoid interrupting a speaker and not be argumentative or aggressive.
3. Tone of Voice: The tone in which we speak can drastically alter the meaning of our words. We should be mindful of our tone, aiming for a friendly and respectful manner, even when discussing difficult topics. An assertive tone is useful to make a point, but an aggressive tone should never be used.
Tonal efficiency must be maintained while making phone calls, since the person at the other end may not be able to see you and may misunderstand if you shout or raise your voice.
4. Timing: Choose the right moment to communicate, considering both your own readiness and the other person's receptiveness. Avoid discussing important matters when either party is stressed or distracted.
Sometimes meeting outside the office environment…like talking over a coffee break or having a lunch meeting is also a strategy to help taking a discussion forward
5. Feedback: Encourage feedback from the person you're communicating with to ensure mutual understanding. This can involve asking questions, paraphrasing what they've said to confirm understanding, and being open to constructive criticism.
6. Flexibility: Adapt your communication style to suit the situation and the preferences of the person you're interacting with. Some people may respond better to a more formal approach, while others prefer a more casual tone.
7. Confidence: Speak with confidence but avoid coming across as arrogant or dismissive. Confidence in your message can inspire trust and credibility in your communication.
8. Practice: Like any skill, effective verbal communication improves with practice. Take opportunities to speak in various settings, seek feedback, and reflect on what worked well and what could be improved.
By incorporating these elements into your verbal communication, you can enhance your ability to convey messages clearly, build rapport with others, and achieve your communication goals effectively.
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