How to Be a Great Communicator

Win with words.

One of the keys to a successful career in any field is effective communications. Being savvy about keeping people informed is an art form in itself. Here are some ideas to consider when thinking of improving your communication.

Things You'll Need

• Willingness to develop better habits

Instructions

1. Email is not always your best option. Realize that some information may require a personal meeting. In particular, it is fine to send an email if you are also doing a one-on-one when emotional or sensitive information is being communicated like handling or discussing performance problems of employees, for example.

2. When trying to persuade someone to see your point of view, it may be best handled directly or at least by phone. Sometimes, it's easy for your points of view to get lost in an email or a letter that would otherwise be more convincing in person.

3. Don't be afraid to over inform people. It is always better to provide more informaiton than less informaiton. Particularly, avoid situations where you do not tell your boss something important and he hears it from outside his group.

4. Keep your team or department updated on important activities, priorities and goals. If they change, inform your team. You need to do this if you expect the same treatment from each of them.

5. Be systematic and timely about keeping your group updated by having frequent meetings, with the frequency dictated by the urgency of the work. TV news people may meet several times a day while some business groups need only meet monthly.

6. Get feedback from others about your communication skills. Find out what works and when from your boss and your peers. If you need to develop your presentation technique, it is well worth your time as this effects how you are perceived by others.

Tips & Warnings

• Realize that everyone has communication strengths and areas for development. Some are superior at writing and others at graphics and visualizing information. Play to others' strengths and help them improve as well by provided constructive feedback. Keep in mind that good communication is the cornerstone of business success.

References

• Witt Communications: Communication Tips