Whether you’re leading a team or closing a sale, a strong set of communication skills is paramount for success when running a business. Fortunately, developing strong communication skills is possible when you’ve got the right insights and resources.
In this article, we’re sharing eight ways to improve communication skills in business.
By applying these communication tips, you’ll be able to better lead your team, get more done, close more sales, and reach your business goals.
1) Listen actively.
The first step to communication is listening. Listening is an active process that requires you to pay attention, understand, and remember what’s being said. When you’re focused on listening, you’re less likely to make assumptions and jump to conclusions.
2) Be clear and concise.
When communicating with others, it’s important to be clear and concise in your communication. This means using language that can be easily understood and avoiding jargon. It also means getting to the point quickly so that your message is heard loud and clear.
3) Avoid distractions.
In order to communicate effectively, it’s important to avoid distractions. This means putting away your phone, silencing any notifications, and giving the person your full attention. By avoiding distractions, you’ll be able to better listen and understand what’s being said.
4) Ask questions.
If you’re unsure about something, it’s always best to ask a question. Asking questions shows that you’re interested in the conversation and that you value the other person’s input. It also allows you to clarify any misunderstandings so that everyone is on the same page.
You can use these questions and queries to refine your message, too, especially when taking an ‘edutainment‘ approach to educating your audience and team.
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5) Repeat back what you heard.
After someone has finished speaking, take a moment to repeat back what you heard. This not only demonstrates that you were listening, but it also allows for clarification if there was anything that wasn’t clear.
6) Be open-minded.
When communicating with others, it’s important to be open-minded. This means being willing to see things from another person’s perspective and being receptive to new ideas. By being open-minded, you’ll be able to build better relationships and find common ground.
7) Show empathy.
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. When communicating with someone, showing empathy can help build rapport and trust. It also allows you to see the situation from their perspective so that you can better understand their needs.
8) Avoid making assumptions.
Making assumptions is one of the quickest ways to communication breakdown. When communicating with others, avoid making assumptions about what they know, how they feel, or what they want. Instead, ask questions and let them share their thoughts and feelings.
Start practicing your new communication skills
Communication skills can be refined and improved through repetition and practice. As such, you should throw yourself headfirst into conversations and situations where you can be a leader.
Try getting in on stage at a local business meetup. Or, call on the team for a laser-focused meeting. Do as we’ve done — hosting a weekly open forum via Zoom. You could practice in front of the mirror at home, too.
Whatever gets you there — practice, practice, and practice some more.
By following these communication tips, you’ll be on your way to improving communication skills in business. With better communication, you’ll be able to better lead your team, get more done, close sales, and reach goals.
