( Communication Skills )

Working on your communication skills helps you express yourself and improve your personal relationships. Listening well and speaking clearly is key to your academic and personal life, as well as in future job interviews and business meetings. Are you interested in strengthening them?

• Effective communication and its importance

The goal of strengthening your communication skills is to achieve effective communication. In short, it means being able to actively listen and express yourself clearly to those around you; however, to achieve this, you must master several skills that allow you to understand the signals of verbal and non-verbal communication, as well as listening.

The importance of effective communication is vital because it allows you to clearly translate your intentions and feelings into easily understandable messages. Effective communication makes you a more productive person and reduces misunderstandings caused by lack of communication.

In addition, developing effective communication processes helps you understand the needs of others, a skill that will be very useful in your future career.

Effective communication is a critical skill in all aspects of life. Whether in personal, professional, or social settings, the way we communicate with others can impact our relationships, our ability to solve problems, and our overall success.

In an increasingly interconnected and diverse world, mastering effective communication skills has become more important than ever.

• What are the types of communication?

Communication is the process of exchanging information between individuals or groups and involves the transmission and reception of messages in different ways:

×. Verbal , what we say orally with the use of language, vocabulary, grammar, tone of voice, pitch and intonation.

×. Nonverbal , such as facial expressions, body language, gestures, posture, and eye contact.

×. Visual , using resources such as images, graphics, symbols and emojis to communicate concepts.

×. Written , conveying concepts in emails, reports, articles, and text messages.

At work, communication can be of all kinds, but regardless of the format chosen, there are communication skills that permeate all formats, have the potential to increase productivity and can significantly improve when they are part of the learning and development plan.

• Why invest in improving team communication skills?

Many talented hard-skilled performers reach a point in their careers when they begin to feel the need to focus on improving the way they communicate.

This can happen due to several factors:

×. Assume leadership positions , give and receive feedback , present results to stakeholders, sell ideas

×. Have a better relationship with the team and be a positive influence

×. To improve the quality of personal relationships

A strategic career development plan that takes communication skills into account has the power to meet people where they are in their growth journey, and that can lead to greater happiness, meaning, and engagement at work.

In addition to productivity gains of around 20-25% , honing communication skills within the team ensures fertile ground for innovation, knowledge sharing and collaboration , essential for a company’s competitiveness and success in the market.

• tips to strengthen your communication skills

Imagine for a moment a situation where you are working on a team project. All the team members have brilliant ideas, but if they cannot communicate those ideas clearly and persuasively, the project can easily go off the rails.

Lack of effective communication can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and ultimately, unsatisfactory results.

On the other hand, when we are able to communicate effectively, we can inspire trust, foster collaboration, and generate a sense of belonging in our teams.

In the professional realm, people with strong communication skills are often valued for their ability to lead, influence, and solve problems effectively.

But the importance of effective communication goes beyond the work environment. In our personal relationships, the way we communicate can impact our ability to connect with others, build strong relationships, and constructively resolve conflicts.

Whether in a face-to-face conversation, in an email, or in a social media post, the way we choose to communicate can have a lasting impact on our interactions with others.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the key skills to improve effective communication, as well as practical techniques and tools you can use to strengthen your communication skills in your daily life.

From active listening to expressing constructive feedback, you’ll learn how to apply these strategies to achieve your personal and professional goals:

There are many communication skills that are put to the test daily to make work happen in organizations.

Some will be more relevant in certain roles, others will make a difference for entire departments or will be especially necessary for certain industries. Let’s see what they are:

× Communicate more

In 1990, a study was conducted at Stanford University which showed that listeners’ understanding is overestimated. This study showed that it is important to communicate clearly and excessively when sharing new ideas, as the audience is likely to absorb less than expected.

×. Avoid relying on visual aids

Renowned companies such as Apple and Facebook have banned the use of Power Point in presentations, as they believe it can hinder communication rather than promote it.

The recommendation is that when giving a presentation you should always be prepared to use words, make compelling narratives, and use non-verbal cues to communicate your point to your listeners. Avoid visual aids unless absolutely necessary.

×. Practice active listening

Being an effective communicator is also important for being a good listener. A good way to show that you are really connected with what you are being told is by giving affirmative responses and asking follow-up questions.

×. Focus on non-verbal communication

Paying attention to nonverbal cues can help prevent miscommunication and spark interest in those around you. Be mindful of your facial expressions and body language when speaking.

Non-verbal cues affect the impression people have of you. Maintain eye contact, limit hand gestures, and keep good posture, especially when meeting someone for the first time.

The following nonverbal cues indicate that you or the listener are not open to productive communication.

a). Lack of eye contact shows distraction or disinterest.

b). Sighs and yawns are signs of mental or physical fatigue or boredom.

c). Crossed arms or tapping feet or fingers indicate that you or the recipient are not engaged in the conversation.

Use your body language , such as facial expressions, posture, and body movements, to complement the content of your message and reinforce what you are saying. Simply nod or shake your head to add meaning to the content.

×. Manage your emotions

To achieve good communication, it is important to manage emotions and express them according to the context. Control strong emotions in the academic and professional environment to avoid poor communication and even conflicts.

×. Request feedback

As with many skills, receiving feedback from peers and mentors is critical to becoming a better communicator. Asking for feedback regularly will help you uncover areas of opportunity.

Cultivating the habit of listening to other people’s points of view will help you improve in your relationships and as a communicator.

×. Practice public speaking

Public speaking can seem daunting, but the best way to overcome your fear and develop your skills is practice. Great communicators are able to articulate their feelings, whether speaking to a large group or face-to-face with another person.

Speaking regularly in front of a group magnifies your strengths and weaknesses, encouraging the development of good communication habits.

×. Adapt to your context

Part of achieving effective communication is related to the ability to modulate the way you express your thoughts and feelings according to the interpersonal context.

Develop a filter that allows you to recognize what, how, and when to communicate in order to ensure that your message is received appropriately in different environments.

×. Clarity and conciseness:

When communicating, it’s important to express your ideas clearly and concisely. Avoid using jargon or complicated terms that may confuse your audience.

For example, when sending an email, make sure your message is easy to understand and straight to the point, using short paragraphs and a clear structure.

×. Empathy:

Empathy is key to building strong relationships and understanding the needs and concerns of others.

For example, if you are discussing a problem with a colleague, show empathy by trying to understand their point of view and looking for solutions that benefit both of you.

×. Good grammar

Grammar is like a hard skill within the soft skill of communication. Impeccable grammar alone does not guarantee good communication skills, but it contributes to an image of credibility and professionalism.

From a quick review of a text before hitting the send button to adapting the text to the chosen medium, grammar contributes to consistency in communication style, even in a casual Slack conversation.

×. Emotional management

Using emotional control to improve communication is about the ability to shift from “reacting” to “responding” to situations at work.

Emotional control at work is a soft skill that helps people maintain professionalism and face difficult conversations with a relaxed attitude that is contagious.

×. Business English Fluency

English has significant importance in the workplace, especially in multinational companies , allowing for effective communication with stakeholders and more opportunities for professional development and internal recruitment for individuals.

Business trips, sales calls, representing the company at events, giving product demonstrations and building a culturally diverse team are some of the many ways mastering business English can improve company results.

×. Collaboration

Just because someone can communicate very well orally does not mean that the person has the ability to collaborate and build bridges between people, concepts, ideas and departments.

In Malcolm Gladwell’s best-selling book, The Tipping Point , the author introduces the concept of connectors, individuals who play a role in making ideas go viral.

Connectors are individuals who have an extraordinary ability to connect people from different circles or social groups, with large and diverse networks that span multiple domains or communities.

Developing collaboration skills is about opening yourself up to being a connector, and that means much more than just having a business network.

×. Open mind

Open-minded people have a growth mindset , are willing to change their minds when exposed to coherent arguments, are always seeking lifelong learning , and are open to constructive conversations.

Developing the ability to communicate with an open mind makes professionals more flexible and more likely to respond well to changes , reviewing and adjusting plans according to new realities.

×. Conflict Resolution

With human communication comes a fair amount of conflict.That’s why conflict resolution is a communication skill and means things like having the right timing to escalate and schedule a difficult conversation, understanding perspectives, seeking common ground, and negotiating to reach a resolution.

×. Communicate with courage and confidence

“Communicating boldly” is actually one of Voxy’s values and is an essential communication skill for business success .

Expressing yourself honestly, authentically and respectfully with the ability to self-regulate emotions, even in challenging or uncomfortable situations, can improve your professional game.

It requires a willingness to take risks, speak up and address problems effectively, promoting positive change within your organization.

Want to avoid being blindsided by problems that could be avoided or mitigated? Encourage all team members to always mention positions they feel are relevant to the success of the business .

×. Volume, tone and diction

It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it!The tone of voice and diction used at work can significantly affect how team members receive and perceive messages.

It is important for people to be aware of the context and adjust their tone to suit the formality, urgency, or sensitivity of the conversation.

×. Lightness and accessibility 🤓

It’s not about telling the funniest jokes at work (although that’s certainly a good thing), it’s about how comfortable people feel reaching out to ask questions and exchange ideas openly and in a welcoming manner.

In an environment where more and more communication happens virtually, this can mean a smile, eye contact (even if it’s virtual), and using the right emojis at the right time to encourage, agree, or congratulate a person on the team.

An interesting move that happened recently that shows the importance of this carefree communication is the launch of reactions in Google Meet , which contribute to a lighter atmosphere in work meetings.

×. Personalize your message

Different situations and audiences require tailored communication approaches. Consider your audience’s context, cultural norms, and prior knowledge when crafting your message.

This sensitivity to context helps avoid misunderstandings and fosters a more inclusive environment.

Whether you’re addressing senior management or a new intern, adapting your communication style can lead to more effective interactions and better outcomes.

×. Practice regularly

Like any other skill, communication improves with practice. Look for opportunities to speak in public, write, or engage in challenging conversations.

Joining a professional group or taking a course can provide a safe space to hone your skills.

Regular practice allows you to become more comfortable with various aspects of communication, from speaking off the cuff to handling difficult discussions with aplomb.

×. Communication in the Digital World: Navigating the Age of Technology

In the digital age, communication has extended its roots to online platforms. However, traditional communication skills remain essential.

Learning to convey ideas clearly in emails, text messages, and social media, as well as in face-to-face conversations, is crucial to building relationships and avoiding misunderstandings.

×. Effective Communication in Leadership and Teamwork

Effective leadership and teamwork depend heavily on communication. A leader who actively listens and communicates clearly inspires trust and direction.

On the other hand, a team that communicates effectively can solve problems collaboratively and achieve common goals fluently.

×. Communication as a Tool of Influence and Persuasion

Effective communication is a powerful tool to influence and persuade.The ability to articulate ideas clearly, back them up with strong arguments, and resonate with the emotions of your audience can inspire action and change.

A good example is the speech of a charismatic leader who manages to unite people around a common cause.

×. Use simple words and phrases

If you can use words that are simple and easy to understand , use them.

Because if you use a lot of jargon or complex language, you can create confusion in whoever is receiving your message.

If you are not sure if the listener understood what you said, confirm it again.

×. Listen before you speak

Good communication involves both speaking and listening effectively. So learn to engage with what the speaker is saying by developing the following skills:

a). Concentrate completely on the speaker.

b). Understand the emotions communicated.

c). Look for non-verbal cues: tone and volume of voice, body language, etc.

d). Listen with your right ear to activate the left side of your brain, which processes emotional and vocal understanding.

e). Stand up straight with your chin down to capture the higher vocal frequencies.

f). Don’t interrupt, wait until the person speaking has finished expressing themselves.

g). Respond to what is said with feelings, smiles, and brief comments, such as “Really?” “I see,” etc.

×. Speak with mutual respect

If people can only remember one thing from your conversation, they will surely remember what they think of you as a person.

Therefore, you must satisfy the most basic needs of human emotions by making them feel comfortable, valued and respected.

Once you learn to communicate respectfully , both verbally and physically, you will be a pleasant, valued and welcome person in your professional or everyday life environment.

×. Connect with your listeners

This concept takes your understanding of the people listening to you live to a new and higher level.

The location of the conversation or speech, the topic, and even the appearance of the people receiving your message can provide you with clues that allow you to connect with them on a personal level.

Just make sure to avoid controversial topics like politics and religion.

×. Stay positive

Maintaining a positive attitude during a conversation is extremely important so that the recipients do not lose interest in what you are saying, and do not see you as someone unpleasant.

How can you achieve this? By following these tips to improve your communication skills:

a). Avoid negativity or complaints.

b). Pay attention to your language to make sure you are not using critical or aggressive words or phrases.

c). If you must express displeasure or concern, do so with kind and encouraging words. We know it’s a challenge, but it’s not impossible.

×. Focus on the desired outcome

Knowing the outcome you want to achieve before you start communicating is essential to staying on topic and changing the direction of the conversation if necessary.

So define what you want to achieve before you start speaking . For example:

• Transmit facts.

• I need to resolve a conflict.

• I’m looking for advice.

• Social bond.

Ultimately, the desired outcome determines the flow and content of the conversation.

×. Thank you for the attention given

Whenever you address a group of people or engage in a long conversation, express your appreciation for the time your listeners have spent with you.

Also, have the courage to acknowledge, comment on, or praise any contributions made by those listening to you.

This will help you build positive relationships, a characteristic of those who know how to communicate effectively.

×. Conclusion

Putting each of these tips into practice to improve your communication skills can determine both the success and failure of your conversations, debates, speeches and social interactions.

When you convey a message clearly, confidently and respectfully, you minimize intercultural misunderstandings and maximize performance.

It is also necessary to know how to listen, be positive and be grateful to generate trust and harmony in any environment.

The point is that these elements will help you create a culture of good and supportive socialization .