How to Improve Communication Skills With People

Your body language should show that you're interested in the conversation.

Effective communication skills are an asset in many life situations. They can contribute to a higher level of success in your career, open up opportunities to make new friends and give you a sense of confidence when faced with a room full of strangers. According to Don Hofstrand, Co-Director, Ag Marketing Resource Center, good communication skills can enhance relationships, while poor skills can deplete them. There are many people who may need work when it comes to communication skills, but the effort can make a positive difference in business and personal relationships.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Make eye contact with the person to whom you are speaking. This serves to establish a sense of trust among people because it shows you have confidence in what you are saying. If you are speaking to a room full of people, you can make periodic eye contact with different people as you speak. If you are speaking one-on-one with someone, make the level of eye contact comfortable by making periodic breaks in contact. Too little eye contact will make people feel uncomfortable and make them think you have something to hide or that you are not being honest with them.

2. Be aware of your body language and facial expressions. A friendly, warm smile can make you seem more approachable. You don't have to constantly bare your teeth at people; a closed-mouth smile works just as well and may feel more comfortable. Make sure your body language conveys a sense of openness and interest. Crossed arms and legs convey a sense that you are closed off and not interested in communicating. Sit or stand in an easy, relaxed posture to show you are interested in the conversation.

3. Pronounce your words clearly and vary your voice. Changing the pitch and tone of your voice will make what you are saying more interesting and people will want to follow along with you. For example if you're telling a story about how your dog got lost in the woods 500 miles from home and miraculously found his way back to your house, don't make it monotone. Make it exciting by saying something like, "I thought he was gone for good, but a FULL WEEK LATER I went out to get the paper and found him RUNNING UP THE DRIVEWAY!" Emphasize certain words to make your sentences exciting to the listener.

4. Make it clear that you understand the other person. You can accomplish this by asking appropriate questions or re-wording what the person said to clarify their meaning. Also use appropriate body language and facial expressions to show you are following what the other person is saying. An appropriate nod of the head or raised eyebrow can show the speaker that you are engaged in the conversation.

References

• Iowa State University: Improving Business Communication Skills
• Ohio University: Top 5 Communication Skills Essential to Career Success
• University of Hawaii: Six Ways to Improve Your Nonverbal Communications

Resources

• National Agricultural Library: Interpersonal Communication Skills Inventory