how can i improve my communication skills essay

8 Ways You Can Improve Your Communication Skills

Your guide to establishing better communication habits for success in the workplace.

Mary Sharp Emerson

A leader’s ability to communicate clearly and effectively with employees, within teams, and across the organization is one of the foundations of a successful business.

And in today’s complex and quickly evolving business environment, with hundreds of different communication tools, fully or partially remote teams, and even multicultural teams spanning multiple time zones, effective communication has never been more important — or more challenging.

Thus, the ability to communicate might be a manager’s most critical skill. 

The good news is that these skills can be learned and even mastered. 

These eight tips can help you maximize your communication skills for the success of your organization and your career.

1. Be clear and concise

Communication is primarily about word choice. And when it comes to word choice, less is more.

The key to powerful and persuasive communication — whether written or spoken — is clarity and, when possible, brevity. 

Before engaging in any form of communication, define your goals and your audience. 

Outlining carefully and explicitly what you want to convey and why will help ensure that you include all necessary information. It will also help you eliminate irrelevant details. 

Avoid unnecessary words and overly flowery language, which can distract from your message.

And while repetition may be necessary in some cases, be sure to use it carefully and sparingly. Repeating your message can ensure that your audience receives it, but too much repetition can cause them to tune you out entirely. 

2. Prepare ahead of time

Know what you are going to say and how you are going to say before you begin any type of communication.

However, being prepared means more than just practicing a presentation. 

Preparation also involves thinking about the entirety of the communication, from start to finish. Research the information you may need to support your message. Consider how you will respond to questions and criticisms. Try to anticipate the unexpected.

Before a performance review, for instance, prepare a list of concrete examples of your employee’s behavior to support your evaluation.

Before engaging in a salary or promotion negotiation, know exactly what you want. Be ready to discuss ranges and potential compromises; know what you are willing to accept and what you aren’t. And have on hand specific details to support your case, such as relevant salaries for your position and your location (but be sure that your research is based on publicly available information, not company gossip or anecdotal evidence). 

Before entering into any conversation, brainstorm potential questions, requests for additional information or clarification, and disagreements so you are ready to address them calmly and clearly.

3. Be mindful of nonverbal communication

Our facial expressions, gestures, and body language can, and often do, say more than our words. 

Nonverbal cues can have between 65 and 93 percent more impact than the spoken word. And we are more likely to believe the nonverbal signals over spoken words if the two are in disagreement. 

Leaders must be especially adept at reading nonverbal cues. 

Employees who may be unwilling to voice disagreements or concerns, for instance, may show their discomfort through crossed arms or an unwillingness to make eye contact. If you are aware of others’ body language, you may be able to adjust your communication tactics appropriately.

At the same time, leaders must also be able to control their own nonverbal communications. 

Your nonverbal cues must, at all times, support your message. At best, conflicting verbal and nonverbal communication can cause confusion. At worst, it can undermine your message and your team’s confidence in you, your organization, and even in themselves. 

4. Watch your tone

How you say something can be just as important as what you say. As with other nonverbal cues, your tone can add power and emphasis to your message, or it can undermine it entirely.

Tone can be an especially important factor in workplace disagreements and conflict. A well-chosen word with a positive connotation creates good will and trust. A poorly chosen word with unclear or negative connotations can quickly lead to misunderstanding. 

When speaking, tone includes volume, projection, and intonation as well as word choice. In real time, it can be challenging to control tone to ensure that it matches your intent. But being mindful of your tone will enable you to alter it appropriately if a communication seems to be going in the wrong direction.

Tone can be easier to control when writing. Be sure to read your communication once, even twice, while thinking about tone as well as message. You may even want to read it out loud or ask a trusted colleague to read it over, if doing so does not breach confidentiality. 

And when engaging in a heated dialogue over email or other written medium, don’t be too hasty in your replies. 

If at all possible, write out your response but then wait for a day or two to send it. In many cases, re-reading your message after your emotions have cooled allows you to moderate your tone in a way that is less likely to escalate the conflict.

Browse our Communication programs.

5. Practice active listening

Communication nearly always involves two or more individuals.

Therefore, listening is just as important as speaking when it comes to communicating successfully. But listening can be more challenging than we realize. 

In her blog post Mastering the Basics of Communication , communication expert Marjorie North notes that we only hear about half of what the other person says during any given conversation. 

The goal of active listening is to ensure that you hear not just the words the person is saying, but the entire message. Some tips for active listening include:

• Giving the speaker your full and undivided attention
• Clearing your mind of distractions, judgements, and counter-arguments. 
• Avoiding the temptation to interrupt with your own thoughts.
• Showing open, positive body language to keep your mind focused and to show the speaker that you are really listening
• Rephrase or paraphrase what you’ve heard when making your reply
• Ask open ended questions designed to elicit additional information

6. Build your emotional intelligence

Communication is built upon a foundation of emotional intelligence. Simply put, you cannot communicate effectively with others until you can assess and understand your own feelings. 

“If you’re aware of your own emotions and the behaviors they trigger, you can begin to manage these emotions and behaviors,” says Margaret Andrews in her post, How to Improve Your Emotional Intelligence .

Leaders with a high level of emotional intelligence will naturally find it easier to engage in active listening, maintain appropriate tone, and use positive body language, for example.  

Understanding and managing your own emotions is only part of emotional intelligence. The other part — equally important for effective communication — is empathy for others.

Empathizing with an employee can, for example, make a difficult conversation easier. 

You may still have to deliver bad news, but (actively) listening to their perspective and showing that you understand their feelings can go a long way toward smoothing hurt feelings or avoiding misunderstandings.

7. Develop a workplace communication strategy

Today’s workplace is a constant flow of information across a wide variety of formats. Every single communication must be understood in the context of that larger flow of information.

Even the most effective communicator may find it difficult to get their message across without a workplace communication strategy.

A communication strategy is the framework within which your business conveys and receives information. It can — and should — outline how and what you communicate to customers and clients, stakeholders, and managers and employees. 

Starting most broadly, your strategy should incorporate who gets what message and when. This ensures that everyone receives the correct information at the right time. 

It can be as detailed as how you communicate, including defining the type of tools you use for which information. For example, you may define when it’s appropriate to use a group chat for the entire team or organization or when a meeting should have been summarized in an email instead. 

Creating basic guidelines like this can streamline the flow of information. It will help ensure that everyone gets the details they need and that important knowledge isn’t overwhelmed by extraneous minutia. 

8. Create a positive organizational culture

The corporate culture in which you are communicating also plays a vital role in effective communication. 

In a positive work environment — one founded on transparency, trust, empathy, and open dialogue — communication in general will be easier and more effective. 

Employees will be more receptive to hearing their manager’s message if they trust that manager. And managers will find it easier to create buy-in and even offer constructive criticism if they encourage their employees to speak up, offer suggestions, and even offer constructive criticisms of their own. 

“The most dangerous organization is a silent one,” says Lorne Rubis in a blog post, Six Tips for Building a Better Workplace Culture . Communication, in both directions, can only be effective in a culture that is built on trust and a foundation of psychological safety.

Authoritative managers who refuse to share information, aren’t open to suggestions, and refuse to admit mistakes and accept criticism are likely to find their suggestions and criticisms met with defensiveness or even ignored altogether. 

Without that foundation of trust and transparency, even the smallest communication can be misconstrued and lead to misunderstandings and unnecessary conflict.

Communicating with co-workers and employees is always going to present challenges. There will always be misunderstandings and miscommunications that must be resolved and unfortunately, corporate messages aren’t always what we want to hear, especially during difficult times.

But building and mastering effective communication skills will make your job easier as a leader, even during difficult conversations. Taking the time to build these skills will certainly be time well-spent. 

Want to build your skills? Find the program that’s right for you.

Browse all Professional & Executive Development programs.

About the Author

Digital Content Producer

Emerson is a Digital Content Producer at Harvard DCE. She is a graduate of Brandeis University and Yale University and started her career as an international affairs analyst. She is an avid triathlete and has completed three Ironman triathlons, as well as the Boston Marathon.

Harvard Professional Development Participant Success Stories

Read about how these skilled professionals used the knowledge and skills they learned in a Harvard PDP to further their career development.

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.

How it works

Transform your enterprise with the scalable mindsets, skills, & behavior change that drive performance.

Explore how BetterUp connects to your core business systems.

We pair AI with the latest in human-centered coaching to drive powerful, lasting learning and behavior change.

Build leaders that accelerate team performance and engagement.

Unlock performance potential at scale with AI-powered curated growth journeys.

Build resilience, well-being and agility to drive performance across your entire enterprise.

Transform your business, starting with your sales leaders.

Unlock business impact from the top with executive coaching.

Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Accelerate the performance and potential of your agencies and employees.

See how innovative organizations use BetterUp to build a thriving workforce.

Discover how BetterUp measurably impacts key business outcomes for organizations like yours.

A demo is the first step to transforming your business. Meet with us to develop a plan for attaining your goals.

• What is coaching?

Learn how 1:1 coaching works, who its for, and if it's right for you.

Accelerate your personal and professional growth with the expert guidance of a BetterUp Coach.

Types of Coaching

Navigate career transitions, accelerate your professional growth, and achieve your career goals with expert coaching.

Enhance your communication skills for better personal and professional relationships, with tailored coaching that focuses on your needs.

Find balance, resilience, and well-being in all areas of your life with holistic coaching designed to empower you.

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Research, expert insights, and resources to develop courageous leaders within your organization.

Best practices, research, and tools to fuel individual and business growth.

View on-demand BetterUp events and learn about upcoming live discussions.

The latest insights and ideas for building a high-performing workplace.

• BetterUp Briefing

The online magazine that helps you understand tomorrow's workforce trends, today.

Innovative research featured in peer-reviewed journals, press, and more.

Founded in 2022 to deepen the understanding of the intersection of well-being, purpose, and performance

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

18 effective strategies to improve your communication skills

Communication skills are some of the most utilized and the most sought after in the workplace. They’re essential for leaders and individual contributors to hone. Looking at our largely remot and hybrid work environments, great communication skills make the difference between connected, agile teams, and teams who fail to collaborate, stay aligned, and achieve common goals. 

The good news is that improving communication skills is easier than you might imagine. Here are some basic principles worth following in order to communicate better.

5 types of communication to develop

You and members of your team may have been working remotely for some time now. Whether you are in an office daily, at home managing from afar, or in a hybrid workplace between the two, you’ve likely leveraged more than one communication type.

For businesses to thrive long-term, it is important to develop communication skills that span each type. Here are the five most common communication types to focus on improving.

• Oral communication: Thoughts are shared through speech. Examples include presentations, one-on-one meetings, and virtual calls.
• Written communication: Thoughts and ideas are shared via the written word. This can be with emails, hand-written notes, or signage.
• Non-verbal communication : Information is shared without the use of written or spoken words. Examples include facial expressions, tone of voice, body language, and gestures.
• Active listening: Unlike the examples above, active listening is about receiving information. When someone is listening actively, they might ask questions to understand the information better, but refrain from focusing on their response so much that they fail to hear the speaker.
• Contextual communication: Information i s s hared with mutual, potentially un s poken, under s t anding s of variou s factor s s uch a s interper s onal relation s hip s and the environment.

What is effective communication?

The most effective communicators clearly inform others and actively listen to them at the same time. They can accept input – both verbal and non-verbal – while also expressing their thoughts and opinions in an inclusive way.

Regardless of the communication style , effective communication involves a connection with others. It is a dance with a partner that moves, at times, in ways we did not predict. This means the most powerful skill you can leverage is being in sync with your audience. It involves understanding and speaking to its needs, and then responding to real-time feedback. It means having the conversation that your audience wants to have.

But achieving all of that can take some practice.

Below are some effective communication strategies to help you listen and communicate better.

How to improve communication skills

The best messages are often simple.

There’s no value in delivering any kind of communication, whether written, verbal, formal, or casual, if the message doesn’t come across clearly.

Communicating concisely — while maintaining interest and including everything your team needs to know — is a high-level communication skill.

Here are some ways to communicate better.

1. Keep your audience in mind

Your audience will naturally be more interested and engaged when you tailor your communications to their interests. Piquing their interest by speaking directly to what matters to them will naturally engage their desire to understand and interact with the information.

2. Don’t use 10 words when one will do

Even the most engaged and committed audience will eventually get bored. Keeping your message simple and concise will make it easier to understand and retain. Remember, you already know what you’re going to say, but they’re hearing it for the first time. Keep it simple.

3. Consider the best method to deliver your message

If the information you’re conveying isn’t urgent, consider sending an email or a memo. This is especially important when communicating expectations . Written communication will give your audience more time to review it, think it over, and follow up with questions. It will also give them a handy record to refer back to.

4. Get them involved

If you’ve ever worked as an instructor, manager, trainer, or coach, you’ll know that there are few better ways to learn new information than to teach it. Ask them for their input or to take a role in explaining new concepts and policies to their colleagues.  

5. Leverage face-to-face communication when possible

Communicating face-to-face adds multiple layers of information to an exchange, whether between two people or two hundred. Often, there’s a synergy created with in-person communication that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere. Here are some tips to make the most of face time with your team:

6. Make eye contact

If you’re wondering whether or not your message is getting across, few metrics provide as much feedback as eye contact . You can easily tell if the person you’re speaking to is understanding you, is distracted, worried, or confused — much of which is lost in digital communication.

7. Ask for feedback 

Not sure they got it? Ask! A powerful technique is to ask people to repeat back their version of what you just said. Often, this can improve retention, immediate understanding, and minimize misunderstandings later on. You can also ask them to reach out to you with helpful ways that you can improve your delivery in presentations and other forms of communication.

8. Read non-verbal cues

There are various types of nonverbal-cues . Yawns, fidgeting, and looking around the room are usually clear signs that your audience is thinking about something other than what you’re trying to convey. If you notice this, don’t take it personally. Try asking them to share what’s on their mind, recap previous points they may have missed, or adjourn for a later time.

9. Minimize distractions

If you’re chatting with someone (or a group) face-to-face, keep distractions at bay by leaving unnecessary electronic devices out of the space. Keep the attendance limited to just those who need to be there, and avoid scheduling at a time when people are likely to focus on something else (like just before the end of the day or right before lunch).

How to improve online communication:

Online communication is rapidly replacing office spaces as the primary location of doing business. Especially if you’re used to working with in-person teams, it may be challenging to adjust to having meetings, conversations, and even people that collaborate with you or report to you digitally . Since online communication presents a unique way to interact, here are some things to keep in mind: 

1. Stick to a time limit

Online meetings can be even more difficult to focus on, since they incorporate the distractions of a nearly-unlimited number of settings. Keep the meetings short and to the point, and be especially vigilant about minimizing (potentially) marathon Q&A sessions. If needed, follow up through asynchronous communication methods to protect everyone's time.

2. Be mindful of the other person

Generally, the person presenting is the only one who can give the meeting their full attention. Especially when working from home, assume that participants have multiple demands for their attention and structure the content accordingly.

3. Recap important details

A lot of nonverbal and interpersonal cues can be lost over a digital connection. Ensure understanding by recapping the key points. You can either do a quick review in an online meeting or a brief summary at the end of a lengthy email.

4. Don’t forget to respond

Be sure to respond to each communication with a quick acknowledgment, even if it’s an informal one. Although you may have received the message, it’s likely that the person on the other end will have no way of knowing unless you let them know. A couple words or even a “like” will usually do the trick.

5 extra tips to sharpen your communication skills

In general, if you’re looking to strengthen your communication skills , the following tips will help you succeed no matter the situation you find yourself in (or the audience you find yourself with):

• Be approachable. If your teammates feel intimidated or worried that you may not respond well, they’re less likely to come to you with information.
• Be patient. Not everyone communicates the same way. Taking the time to be sure you’ve understood the other person and communicated clearly can pay dividends.
• Be self-aware. It’s okay if you’re still developing your communication skills, nervous, or having a bad day. It takes time — and practice — to become a skilled communicator.
• Check for understanding. Don’t be afraid to invite feedback or ask questions to ensure that everyone’s on the same page.
• Switch out the messenger. Allow other team members or leaders to develop their communication skills by empowering them to lead discussions and meetings.

How to be a better active listener

There is much talk about the beauty of active listening , but many people aren’t sure how it translates into actual behaviors. One of the main challenges to active listening is the preoccupation with a response. Many people are busy formulating a perfect answer, which leaves no bandwidth to engage with the input. To get out of this habit, which is not really in service of the speaker, consider the following steps.

Rethink how to add value

You may think that adding value to an exchange is mostly about what you say. But that is not always how others perceive it. Most of us value responses that help us think through our own ideas, that clarify our assumptions or point out possible blind spots. We often don’t need a listener to be brilliant or impress us with their own data. Instead, we may value most how they helped us sharpen our thoughts.

Paraphrase without judgment

If you find yourself preoccupied with responding, try changing the focus of your response. Instead of aiming to add your own thoughts, task yourself with giving a summary that withholds your opinion or judgment. As you listen, make it your goal to give a concise summary, perhaps clarifying the speaker’s initial language.

Bonus points for repeating sticky language that the speaker recognizes as their own (“so you were frustrated with the project because the deadline was an uncomfortable high ?”)

Ask questions that help speakers think

The next step from paraphrasing is to ask questions that move the needle. Much like the way a coach listens, these questions push speakers to go deeper into their own thinking, to clarify their expression or consider possible concerns. You can play devil’s advocate by pointing out inconsistencies or language that seems unclear. All of these are true gifts to a speaker and help you stay focused on listening.

Interrupt politely

Active listening isn’t mindless indulgence, and not all interruption is rude. Sometimes speakers get lost in the weeds, providing depths of detail you don’t need. Interruption can help them stay relevant – and be rewarded with more engagement.

Most speakers don’t mind being cut off by a question that lets them keep talking. Much harder, especially for introverts, is to interrupt someone in a meeting and end their floor time. Be sure to:

• Validate the speaker (“Thank you for bringing that up.”)
• Use a warm and polite tone. Get feedback from others on how you sound and come across.
• Refer to shared interest (“I’d just like to make sure we get to hear from everyone about the project.”)

Tips to keep audiences engaged when you speak

Be relevant.

As we are flooded with information, many audiences will not be impressed by data. In fact, the desire to cover all bases or anticipate all possible questions is a common reason for wordiness.

To keep listeners engaged, especially in virtual meetings, you should carefully curate content for relevance. Ask yourself: How does this information affect my audience? How may it help them with their work? Is this level of detail helpful to understand my main message?

If you have no clear answers to these questions, consider cutting the content.

A hallmark of executive presence, concision is the ability to express your ideas in as few words as possible. Listeners appreciate this, as it shows your preparation and respect for your listeners’ time. In addition, concision signals confidence: the confidence to do less, to say something once, and trust that it lands.

Especially in virtual meetings, where the feedback loop can be flat, many speakers struggle with being concise. They may repeat themselves “just to make sure” or use more examples to make a point clear. But this kind of “more” can often be less, as audiences disengage, having gotten the point the first time.

Concision is a leap of faith. The faith in your own preparation and that your delivery is clear. In virtual meetings with cameras turned off, it becomes harder to keep this faith. For your own self-care as a speaker, you may want to ask your audience to be fully present and turn cameras on — and then reward them with your confident delivery.

Leave spaces for the audience to fill

One way to slow yourself down and check in with audiences is to pause after making a point. Not just a second to catch your breath, but an actual space for silence. Both virtual and in-person, it leaves an opening for your listeners to fill, providing you with real-time feedback as to what they need next. How granular do they want you to get? Do they actually have the questions you were going to answer? Or are they taking your ideas in a whole new direction?

We often feel wary about silence, as if it means that something is wrong. But things happen in silence, and you may be surprised what your listeners offer when given the chance to jump in. However they fill the space, you may get valuable hints as to how to sync and proceed. And that is when communication becomes dancing.

Treat pushback as openings, not obstacles

You may believe that by making a compelling case, you should be rewarded with instant buy-in. Which of course, almost never happens. As your proposals are challenged you get frustrated, perhaps even defensive, as you try to explain why you are right. Soon lines are drawn and both sides double down, and you find yourself stuck in a rut.

To avoid such a shutdown of your ideas, you may want to rethink how you experience pushback. Most new ideas aren’t embraced the way they are initially proposed, and your audience may not need you to have ready-made answers to all their questions. Try to view your pitch as an opening volley, and the pushback as guidance to have the talk that you need to have. Instead of reflexive defense, ask follow-questions to validate and explore the concern.

Final thoughts on effective communication strategies

As a leader and manager, you have tremendous power to set the tone for how your team communicates. While it can be easy to fall into bad communication habits, especially when transitioning to an increasingly digital interface, a shift in the way one individual communicates can open the doors for a radical shift throughout an entire workplace. Building effective communication skills takes time, but the effects are worth the effort at every level of your organization.

Elevate your communication skills

Unlock the power of clear and persuasive communication. Our coaches can guide you to build strong relationships and succeed in both personal and professional life.

Nicolas Gattig

Better Up Fellow Coach

Feedback in communication: 5 areas to become a better communicator

Foster strong communication skills to enjoy professional success, improve your interpersonal communication skills with these 6 tips, member story: developing communication skills and owning the spotlight, the 5 business communication skills worth perfecting, upward communication: what is it 5 examples, communication is key in the workplace. here's how to improve, we need to talk (about communication styles in the workplace), what is nonverbal communication 10 different types (with examples), similar articles, reading the room gives you an edge — no matter who you're talking to, want a leg up in your career master these 11 key listening skills, how to write a speech that your audience remembers, the importance of good speech: 5 tips to be more articulate, active listening: what is it & techniques to become an active listener, 6 presentation skills and how to improve them, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

• Platform Overview
• Integrations
• Powered by AI
• BetterUp Lead
• BetterUp Manage™
• BetterUp Care™
• Sales Performance
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Case Studies
• Why BetterUp?
• About Coaching
• Find your Coach
• Career Coaching
• Communication Coaching
• Life Coaching
• News and Press
• Leadership Team
• Become a BetterUp Coach
• BetterUp Labs
• Center for Purpose & Performance
• Leadership Training
• Business Coaching
• Contact Support
• Contact Sales
• Privacy Policy
• Acceptable Use Policy
• Trust & Security
• Cookie Preferences

How to improve communication skills

Ivan Andreev

Demand Generation & Capture Strategist

ivan.andreev@valamis.com

March 3, 2022 · updated April 3, 2024

11 minute read

After reading this guide, you will understand how to improve your communication skills, and help others do the same.

Communication is a skill, and like all skills, you can get better at it through practice.

You will be able to effectively employ these techniques in your workplace, which will improve interpersonal relationships, allow for better problem solving, and ultimately lead to better business outcomes.

Why is good communication so important at work?

• The importance of listening
• Improving non-verbal communication
• Improving verbal communication
• Improving written communication
• Improving visual communication
• Recommended resources: books and online courses

It might be tempting to think that, as long as you do your job well, being a good communicator isn’t very important. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth!

Every aspect of your job depends on communication, and how well you can communicate directly correlates with how well you can do your job.

This has become even more relevant with the increase in remote work – bad communication skills have been highlighted by the increased use of messaging rather than face-to-face workplace communication.

If you’re in a client-facing role, your communication with them will make or break the relationship.

Think of the various aspects of that work that requires good communication:

• pitching your company to the client,
• building a trusting personal relationship with them,
• understanding what they want and clearly communicating that to the relevant teams,
• receiving feedback,
• communicating about updates or delays,
• and many more.

If you are unable to do this, then the client will lose trust and could seek another company that is better at communication.

If you’re in a management role or would like to be in the future, communication is key.

According to LinkedIn research , communication skills are the number one most desired soft skill that employers want.

Leading is all about being able to deliver your message well, explain concepts, give constructive feedback , mentor your team, and solve problems. How well you can communicate will be crucial to all of those actions.

Even in roles where you are mostly dealing with your own team, your communication skills will help you achieve success in your role.

Good communication will result in being able to explain problems, build solutions, form positive relationships with your department, and effectively collaborate on workflow.

Career development plan template

This template helps employees and bosses plan together for career growth: set goals, assess skills, and make a plan.

5 Ways to improve your communication skills

1. the importance of listening.

We cannot touch on the importance of communication without highlighting that a massive aspect of it is what you do when you’re not talking.

Being a good listener is the most crucial part of communication .

We’re not just talking about hearing the words that a person is saying; rather you should be tuned in to their non-verbal communication also.

• Is the person avoiding eye contact?
• Is their posture open or closed?
• Are they fidgeting with their hands?

All of these actions convey a lot of information.

How to be a good listener:

• When you are listening, give your full attention to the speaker.
• Set your phone face down.
• Turn away from your computer screen.
• Look at their non-verbal signals, and listen to their words.
• Use clarification questions to follow up on key points and then sum up your understanding to them, so they can clear up any miscommunication immediately.

By following the advice above, you demonstrate your engagement in the conversation, confirming to the person that you have heard, and understood, them completely.

2. Improving non-verbal communication

To begin improving your non-verbal communication, first, you must begin by paying attention to it.

As you go through your day, observe how you use the various types of non-verbal communication that we mentioned in our article about types of communication .

Observe yourself:

• Do you make consistent eye contact?
• How do you position yourself when speaking to people?
• Does it change based on who you are talking to?
• How do people react to you?

Observe others:

• Are there certain people who make you feel heard?
• What do they do that makes you feel like that?
• Is there someone who is unpleasant to communicate with?
• What actions do they do that make you not enjoy talking to them?

Think about the positives and negatives that you observe.

If there is someone who you find to be a particularly good – or bad – person to talk to, pinpoint why they make you feel that way.

Pay attention to the non-verbal signals that they are giving off.

You can mimic the positives, and be aware of the negatives.

How to be better at non-verbal communication:

• Don’t fidget! This is rule number one. Be still, and calm. This communicates that you are in control, confident and a force to be reckoned with.
• Use eye contact intelligently. Focus in on people when you want to drive home a point. Look people in the eye both when you are listening to them and when you are speaking.
• Be confident in your use of space. Don’t minimize yourself, instead relax into your space. It’s important that you do this intelligently! Don’t prevent other people from sitting comfortably.
• Strive to be non-reactive during stressful situations. Keep your emotions level and respond calmly.

Simply being more aware of non-verbal communication, and the power that it has will help you be better at using it proactively and positively.

If you observe that you tend to avoid eye contact during stressful negotiations, then you can make sure to put an emphasis on making consistent eye contact when speaking in the next meeting.

3. Improving verbal communication

To improve your verbal communication, you’ll need to get better at both what you say and how you say it.

It doesn’t matter how clear your message is if you are patronizing or rude when you say it.

As we recommend for non-verbal communication, begin by observing yourself and others in conversation.

• Are there times when they react more negatively than others, and can you pinpoint why?
• Are there colleagues who you particularly enjoy conversing with?
• Observe how communication happens in your work environment, and pay attention to which aspects are positive and negative.

Next, begin to think about the content of your verbal communications.

We all know someone who takes ages to get to the point of the story, and how frustrating that can be, or someone who never gets to the point at all.

Before you speak, know what you want to communicate.

• Begin with your stated purpose (‘I think we need to increase ad spending 10%’)
• Move on to your reasoning (‘The upcoming holiday season is a prime time to target our customers more effectively’)
• Review possible outcomes (‘We could increase sales between 20 and 30%’).

While this advice is best suited for more formal presentations, this is effective in informal settings as well.

Knowing what you want to say and having the facts to back it up will make you seem more professional, knowledgeable and decisive.

Use pitch to help captivate your audience

• A lower pitch tends to communicate gravitas and experience. Take longer, deeper breaths and speak from your diaphragm to lower your voice.
• Strategically use silence to capture, and keep attention. Pause and hook the viewer’s attention before dropping your pitch, your big reveal or your thesis sentence.
• Use a range of cadence, speed and style. You don’t want to speak in a monotone, you’ll bore your audience and they won’t be engaged in the content of your communication.

4. Improving written communication

In written communication, the first step to improve is to make sure that your spelling and grammar are perfect.

There are plenty of online tools that can help you with this. You simply paste your writing into the app and then you get valuable feedback on spelling, grammar, and even the content.

Now, this is not a perfect solution, AI is smart but can make mistakes, but it works very well for a quick check, especially if you are not the world’s strongest writer.

Read more about the written type of communication .

Take the time to re-read everything that you write

• Is your tone appropriate to the setting?
• Are there any mistakes, items not linked properly, or missing points?
• Have you covered the subject in enough depth?
• We often overestimate how much other people know about our specialist subjects, it might be necessary to write in more detail. At the same time, don’t write a novel!

Formatting is key

• Format everything, from a Slack message to a full presentation, to make sure that you are creating a readable text.
• Use bullet points and paragraphs to break up your message.
• Highlight your points in bold if you have a lot of text.
• Underline anything that you think is crucial.

More tips for improving your written communication:

• State your assumptions. This will help avoid miscommunications. Start by saying ‘I assume you have heard about the new policy change, effective June 1. Because of this, we will be adjusting x, y and z.’
• Read often. From messages to novels, read often and when you do, think about what you like (or dislike) about what you’re reading. Emulate what you like, and work to avoid what you dislike.
• Use framing to get your point across. Think about it from the recipient’s point of view, and what’s in it for them, and then frame the message to highlight that.
• Read your writing out loud to check for mistakes. Use this time to review grammar, tone, fact-check and to make sure that you have covered everything you wanted to in the communication.
• When possible, use clear examples and avoid using too much jargon.

5. Improving visual communication

An important aspect of using visual communication is to only use it when necessary.

A presentation stuffed full of visual aids that do not add to the content is messy, unprofessional and will distract from the overall message.

You want to be judicious about what you include, and why you are including it. Make sure that you are using the proper chart to show the data in the clearest way, or are including only the sketches that will add to the audience’s understanding of the ideas for a new logo.

Not all of us are graphic designers, but there are tools available to help us create professional-looking visuals.

Make use of those! You don’t want your presentation to look like it was created in 1995.

Default to clean, professional templates, rather than looking for something ‘interesting.’ Your message should be the star, not the font, color, or background image.

Tips for improving visual communication:

• Less is more! Pare back your design and resist the urge to stuff every fact, figure, font and color into a presentation.
• Utilize typography. If in doubt, ask for the brand guidelines for your company and follow those. They will help you create cohesive presentations in line with your company’s preferred look.
• Pay attention to balance and harmony. You can achieve this by using similar, rather than disparate, elements in your communication. The same style of clip art, the same font family, or the same pastel shades.
• Begin with the end in mind. Know what you want to communicate and start there.

Recommended resources

• Surrounded by Idiots: The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each in Business (and in Life) , Thomas Erikson
• How to Talk to Anyone: 92 Little Tricks for Big Success in Relationships , Leil Lowndes
• Influencer: The new science of leading change , Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, David Maxfield, Ron McMillan and Al Switzler
• How to win friends and influence people , Dale Carnegie
• Skill with people , Les Gibli
• How to speak, how to listen , Mortimer J. Adler
• Communication strategies for a virtual age
• Improving communication skills
• Teamwork skills: Communicating effectively in groups
• Effective communication in the globalised workplace

You might be interested in

Enterprise Learning Platform

Discover what an enterprise learning platform is and why you need a new learning solution. Discover the main features every enterprise LMS should have.

Learning Record Store (LRS)

Learn what Learning Record (LRS) is and what it enables. Discover 4 key steps on how to implement it and how to choose the right vendor.

Skills-based talent management 

Discover what a skills-based approach in talent hiring and management is. Learn the key 5 steps on how to implement it in your organization.

How to Improve Your Communication Skills to Be Successful in Life

Have you ever really thought about how important it is to have effective communication skills?

We live in a social and interactive world. Our success in life depends on our ability to communicate and interact with each other – at home, at school, at work, everywhere.

• ❗ Importance of communication
• ❓ What is communication?
• 🔧 Functions of communication
• 💬 Types of communication

🆎 Poor vs successful communication

• ✏ Communication tips

👣 Steps to improve your communication skills

📊 the 7 cs of successful communication, 📚 books on communication skills, 😉 traits of successful communication.

Think of how often you communicate with different people, whether they are your friends, your parents, your neighbors, your colleagues, or complete strangers. Especially at colleges and universities, we have to face many different people, and we have to adapt our communication styles effectively to make a good impression or achieve the results we are looking for. We write emails, facilitate meetings, participate in conference calls, write papers and reports, give presentations, debate with friends and classmates, and so much more.

In this post, you’ll learn:

• Why communication is important.
• Tips to use when speaking to other people.
• Strategies for leading a conversation.

+As a bonus, you’ll get recommendations on professional literature.

If you think about it, you spend almost your entire day communicating!

❗Importance of communication

That means that you should make sure to communicate in the most effective way you can. Strong communication skills can boost your productivity , help you succeed in your career, and make you a leader among your peers. It’s common knowledge that the best leaders are excellent and highly effective communicators .

So, the question is…

How can you improve your communicative skills to have more influence, build a happy and successful career, and form better relationships with your friends and family?

Let’s break this down in detail.

❓What is communication?

Communication is the act of conveying meaning to another person using mutually understood signs and semiotic rules.

The communication process consists of several components:

• The sender is the person who sends the message.
• The message is the information to be conveyed.
• The channel of communication is the manner in which the message is sent: speaking, writing, video, audio, emails, text messages, body language, etc.
• The receiver is the person who receives the message and sends a reply.

There are always two parts to the process of communication: sending and receiving.

The process of communication can be either verbal or non-verbal depending on communicational channels. Verbal communication can be oral or written, while non-verbal communication uses facial expressions, body language, visuals diagrams, or pictures.

🔧Functions of communication

There are four main functions of communication:

• Control (concerning specific spheres of relations between the sender and receiver)
• Motivation (encouraging both sides)
• Emotional expression (exchanging emotions and interacting)
• Information (sharing specific information)

Knowing these functions is extremely important. But to achieve successful results in communication, we have to consider the various types of communication.

💬Types of communication

Language communication can be classified into two common and popular types: interpersonal and business-related.

Interpersonal communication

Interpersonal communication is the exchange of words, signs, and body language signals between people. It can be done in several ways:

• One sender – one receiver (a private talk between two people, the sender and the receiver)
• One sender – many receivers (the average university lecture or a meeting with one speaker who is the sender)
• Many senders – one receiver (a seminar or an examination where each student has a word)
• Many senders – many receivers (a conference where students and teachers are both senders and receivers, all sharing their findings on a topic)

Business communication

The parties exchanging information in business communication may include customers, employees, bosses, companies, and departments.

Keep in mind that in business communication, the parties (the sender and the receiver) often use their own type of shared language called jargon. For this reason, business communication may not be as authentic as other types of interpersonal communication.

Want to know a bit more about effective communication? Keep reading!

Here’s an interesting fact:

In a normal conversation, most people only take in about 25% of what they are told, regardless of the means of communication. So if you want to be sure that people understand your meaning, it is absolutely crucial to develop effective communication skills.

How can you make your meaning clearer and help the receiver better understand your information? You should be attentive and concentrate on the topic of your message. Try to remove distractions. It is useful to write the information down. Always ask clarifying questions if you are unsure. Do not interrupt unless necessary.

If you want to learn more about effective communication skills for your resume and workplace, you can do so on this Zety page .

You already know what communication is. Now you might be thinking…

How can I achieve effective communication ? What is it like?

These are vital questions.

So let’s compare poor and effective communication styles. What should we do to achieve positive results in any conversation?

✏️ Communication tips

Use these simple techniques for effective communication .

• Be authentic.

It is never a good idea to pretend to be a person who you are not. Try to be genuine in business and personal life, and people will like you. Showing your true values, preferences, and thoughts encourages effective communication. Think for a minute, what’s special about you? What details should a person know to get you? Then, use this knowledge to make relationships stronger.

• Be positive or neutral towards the receiver.

The sender should not attack the receiver. Often, even when you don’t mean anything negative toward your opponent, they may feel uncomfortable during the discussion. Especially if you discuss a topic that is important to them. What makes a good communicator? Empathy and the ability to use it. So, don’t miss your chance. Analyze your opponent’s feelings and behavior when speaking and learn to use neutral phrases. Express your feelings more. Instead of attacking the subject with accusations, describe what makes you sad or angry. However, if your tempers don’t allow you to build a calm conversation, change the subject by using the phrase “Let’s take a break until…” The last part could be anything from “…we get some coffee” to “…we get the book from that zoologist so I can prove to you a rhino horn isn’t bone but hair.”

As the receiver, listen carefully to the sender. Remember one phrase: “So, what you’re saying is…” It not only shows your interpretation of the speaking partner’s thoughts but is also a sign of a good listener. Be curious about other people, their ideas, and ways to find out their stories. This isn’t a strategy but a significant feature of interpersonal communication. Don’t judge people or the things they like. On the contrary, try to love the stuff they’re sharing with you. When you learn that different points of view, no matter how strange they are, can all be fantastic, you become kinder to people.

• Pay attention to the conversation.

Don’t be distracted either as the sender or the receiver. Even if you believe in the benefits of multi-tasking, don’t let yourself use a smartphone or write e-mails while communicating with others. Practice eye contact to better understand your partner and show them you’re interested in the conversation. While developing verbal skills, don’t forget to pay attention to non-verbal ones. For example, you should sit or stand straight, keep hands out of your pockets, smile, nod your head, and so on.

• Make your message clear and direct .

Garbled or ambiguous messages make your communication rather poor. Enhance your structuring skills—try to express your thoughts as briefly as possible and only when your message is perfectly clear, add details if you need some. When you strengthen your critical thinking abilities, you become a powerful opponent in a dispute and an excellent teacher who knows how to explain and prove facts. A lack of concentration never leads to successful communication. Focus on one idea at a time to gain the attention of the person you’re talking to.

• Tell the receiver directly what you want out of the conversation.

Avoid any hidden persuasion or attempts to control the receiver. Unless you’re some kind of hypnosis master, your manipulative tricks can be easily discovered. And being an unpleasant person who plays with people’s emotions isn’t the best development plan for good communication skills. If you need someone’s help, don’t start the conversation with ambiguous notes or a detailed speech on how many times you gave them a hand when they were in trouble. Just ask them.

• Keep your mind clear and open to other points of view.

Don’t be distracted either as the sender or the receiver. There is no successful method to improve a dispute where no one is open to new thoughts. Unless one of you becomes ready for a change, communication will not be successful.

• Be emotional, but not over-emotional.

Have control over your actions, words, and even thoughts. When adding emotions, whether at your workplace or with friends, you become more genuine and people start trusting you. But your social life becomes worse if you become too angry or depressing, or, even, too happy.

• Provide an opportunity for suggestions and criticism.

Always give time for the receiver to reply to your message. Communication goals vary strongly, but it’s important to get feedback. Without replies, the conversation turns into a monologue. And why would you learn communication strategies, if you’re going to give a speech rather than have a conversation?

In effective communication, you need to express your ideas and points of view clearly and confidently. You should adapt your content and style to your audience.

To improve your communication skills at work , you should take the following three steps.

• Make other people feel valued. Don’t talk about yourself. Ask questions and listen to their replies. That will make other people feel special.
• Make your communication relevant. Do you want other people to listen to you? Add value to what you say. The main thing is to give your audience a reason to listen to your message. So, explain the benefit, ask some questions, or tell a story. You may also visit an essay database to see samples of how people communicate their thoughts and ideas.
• Make other people feel human. Speak in casual, non-formal words if you want to sound authentic. Use your natural voice.

To get the whole picture of the communication process, let’s take a look at poor, non-effective communication. What does poor communication look like?

• The received message is ambiguous or unclear, is difficult to understand, and can lead to confusion.
• The information is over the top or excessive. The listener loses concentration.

What are the consequences of poor communication? Frustration, squandered time, eroding loyalty, and even loss of hope for the success of the conversation. Non-effective communication leads to conflicts, mistakes, and poor relations between employees. No one wants to waste time and effort.

Effective communication is an absolutely crucial skill, so learning how to improve your communication skills will benefit you in many ways.

So, how can you avoid communication failure in speech and in writing and significantly improve your productivity?

Fortunately, this isn’t as hard as you might think!

Let me explain…

You have to make sure that your communication is clear and effective. In other words, you should be certain that your audience understands the meaning of your message.

Remember the 7 Cs of Communication ! Using the 7 Cs, you can be absolutely sure that your audience gets your message.

According to the 7 Cs, communication should be:

Let’s take a look at a more detailed description of each C.

Being clear about your goal or message while writing or speaking means understanding the purpose of communication. If the sender is not sure, the receiver won’t be sure either. In order to be clear, the number of ideas in each logical unit should be minimal. The receiver should not have to read between the lines or make assumptions to understand your message.

Being concise means sticking to the point and keeping the message brief. Long talks without pauses will tire the receiver. You should avoid unnecessary phrases and sentences. If you keep repeating the same thing several times and in different ways, you won’t make good conversation either.

Being concrete in your speech or writing means sending the receiver a clear picture of the message so that he or she gets all details and facts. Such a laser-like focus will bring you closer to successful communication

Correct communication is error-free. Be sure that your message fits the audience, especially their level of education. Don’t use tricky, rare, outdated, or overly formal or technical words that do not fit your audience. In written communication, be sure there are no misprints, spelling mistakes, or grammatical errors.

Being coherent means being logical. Your ideas should be relevant to your topic. Always prove your ideas with necessary details and appropriate examples.

To be complete, send the receiver everything he or she needs at once. The audience should get only the most relevant information, such as names, dates, times, and locations. Give your audience all the information they need to take action if necessary.

Being courteous means communicating in an honest, open, and friendly manner without hidden insults or aggressive tones. Keep in mind the receiver’s point of view. You should also be empathetic to his or her needs

Other variations of the 7 Cs of Communication include such attributes as credibility and creativity.

To manage social communication better, you’re encouraged to learn from books. There are not only those that are made “for dummies.” So feel free to choose one even if you’re an experienced speaker.

1. Improve Your Social Skills by Daniel Wendler

This book is useful for professional communication, cementing relationships with friends, or dating. Learn how to behave in everyday connections at work and learn many tips for couples.

2. How to Talk to Anyone: 92 Little Tricks for Big Success in Relationships by Leil Lowndes

Does your small talk sound like a set of interview questions? Can’t charm anyone with your smile? Want to discover how to know more about your new acquaintance without revealing too much about yourself?

If you want to know the answer, this book is a perfect choice. The author explains significant topics on how to use your body language, answer and ask questions, make friends, and so on.

3. Talk Like TED by Carmine Gallo

If you’re looking for a perfect example of giving a speech, you must watch at least one TED talk. This book can serve as training material for everyone who’s going to give a presentation on the job, at a seminar, or any event.

Learn nine important tips and become a better speaker.

4. How to Deliver a Great TED Talk: Presentation Secrets of the World’s Best Speakers by Akash Karia

Another book on how to practice presentations and improve your performance in speaking. Learn to make simple but powerful plans, provoke curiosity, and create a WOW-effect.

Watch TED on YouTube, investigate this handbook, and train on new communication techniques.

5. Verbal Judo: The Gentle Art of Persuasion, Updated Edition by George Thompson

Become a perfect speaking partner with the help of empathy and social interaction tips. Understanding your weaknesses, taboos during small talks, and active listening, you improve your communication skills a lot.

6. Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well by Douglas Stone

This book covers the knowledge on how to develop a strong relationship through empathy and understanding. Learn psychological aspects that block positive feedback and how to beat them. Use your positive qualities and temperament to make people like you without any manipulative actions.

7. What Every BODY is Saying: An Ex-FBI Agent’s Guide to Speed-Reading People by Joe Navarro

The author of this book is sure of one thing: actions speak louder than words. To demonstrate this idea, he provides facts and statistics on various aspects of body language.

When you finish this book, you’ll know the strengths of the human body. That makes conversations and disputes much easier.

8. Movie Quotes for All Occasions: Unforgettable Lines for Life’s Biggest Moments by James Sheibli

Tired of psychological theory? Then, try out something fun.

In this book, you’ll see quotes for any occasion—weddings, graduation, work, activism, and so on.

Of course, we don’t advise you to use them every time. But reading the quotes can inspire you when writing your own speech.

We all communicate every day. The better we organize the communication process, the more credibility we’ll have with our classmates, our teachers, and the surrounding world. Always keep in mind the traits of successful communication: clear, concise, concrete, correct, coherent, complete, and courteous.

The ability to communicate effectively is a must if you want to succeed in your education, work, and relationships. I hope that these tips will help you to develop more effective communication skills.

Conversation is a skill and just like any skill, there is value to learning it. Improving your communication skills will help you build better contacts, friendships, and romantic relationships.

• Share via Facebook
• Share via Twitter
• Share via LinkedIn
• Share via email

Need more communication tips

Thank you for the feedback!

Thank you, Kamlesh!

I like how you interpret the theme for communication

Thanks for the tips

Nice! and thanks for sharing this information, very helpful, I really like this article, good job.

Thank you for your attention. It means so much for us!

I am require to learn English communication skills

Thanks for the awesome feedback, Tahir!

How to Improve Communication Skills for Better Interaction

Did you know that a staggering 93% of communication is non-verbal? Yes, you read that right. While words are undeniably important, the way we say them, our body language, and even the tone of our voice play a crucial role in conveying our thoughts and emotions. In a world where effective communication can make or break personal and professional relationships, mastering this skill is paramount. Whether you're looking to excel in your career, strengthen your connections, or simply become a more persuasive communicator, this article is your gateway to practical strategies and tips on how to improve your communication skills.

How to Improve Communication Skills: Short Description

In this article, you'll explore why are communication skills important and their pivotal role in our lives. From unraveling the importance of effective communication to breaking down the core components of these skills, this article is your comprehensive guide. Discover practical strategies, fascinating facts, and essential book recommendations to enhance your ability to connect, persuade, and succeed!

Ready to Master the Art of Written Communication?

If you're looking for a witty take on communication skills in your essay, our experienced writers are here to help.

Exploring What Are Communication Skills

Communication skills are the foundation upon which our ability to interact with others is built. At its core, communication is the process of exchanging information, thoughts, ideas, and emotions with clarity and understanding. But what makes up these essential skills?

• Verbal Communication: This is the most obvious aspect involving the words we choose, the tone we use, and the way we structure our sentences. Effective verbal communication ensures that our message is clear, concise, and easily comprehensible.
• Non-Verbal Communication: Often underestimated, non-verbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and gestures play a significant role in conveying our feelings and intentions. They can either complement or contradict our verbal communication, making them a crucial aspect of overall communication skills.
• Listening Skills: Communication is a two-way street, and active listening is a vital part of it. It involves not just hearing words but understanding the speaker's perspective, asking questions, and showing empathy. Effective listeners can provide thoughtful responses and foster meaningful conversations.
• Written Communication: In our digital age, written communication is more prevalent than ever. This includes emails, text messages, reports, and even social media posts. Effective written communication requires clarity, proper grammar, and an understanding of the recipient's expectations.
• Interpersonal Skills: These skills encompass our ability to interact with others, build rapport, and maintain healthy relationships. Empathy, conflict resolution, and negotiation fall under this category, as they are crucial for navigating social interactions successfully.
• Presentation Skills: For professionals, being able to convey information persuasively and engagingly is vital. Presentation skills involve structuring content effectively, using visual aids, and delivering information with confidence.

Why Good Communication Skills Matter

Effective communication skills are far from being mere soft skills; they are the lifeblood of our personal and professional lives. According to our experts, here's why they matter:

• Career Advancement: In the workplace, the ability to communicate effectively can be a game-changer. Whether you're giving a presentation, collaborating on a project, or resolving conflicts with colleagues, strong interaction abilities are essential. They can lead to promotions, better job opportunities, and increased job satisfaction.
• Building Relationships: Communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship, be it with family, friends, or romantic partners. Good communication fosters trust, understanding, and empathy. It helps resolve conflicts and ensures that everyone's needs and feelings are heard and respected.
• Conflict Resolution: Disagreements and conflicts are inevitable in any human interaction. However, those with strong interaction skills can navigate these situations with grace and effectiveness. They can defuse tension, find common ground, and reach mutually beneficial solutions.
• Personal Growth: Mastering effective communication skills can lead to personal growth and self-awareness. When you can express your thoughts and feelings more clearly, you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your needs. This self-awareness can lead to increased self-confidence and improved mental well-being.
• Influence and Persuasion: Whether you're a salesperson trying to close a deal or a leader inspiring your team, the power of persuasion is rooted in effective communication. The ability to articulate your ideas persuasively achieved through understanding how to improve your communication skills, can have a significant impact on your success in various aspects of life.

How to Improve Communication Skills: Strategies for Success

Discover the concrete strategies you need to improve communication skills. This guide provides actionable tips, from refining your listening skills to improving your verbal and non-verbal communication. By the end, you'll be equipped with the tools to become a more influential and empathetic communicator, setting yourself up for success in both personal and professional spheres.

Engage as an Attentive Listener

Listening is more than just hearing words; it's about understanding the speaker's message, emotions, and perspective. Being an attentive listener is a skill that can significantly improve your communication:

• Give Your Full Attention: When someone is speaking, put aside distractions and focus on them. Make eye contact and give them your undivided attention. This simple act shows respect and genuine interest in what they're saying.
• Avoid Interruptions: Resist the urge to interrupt or finish the speaker's sentences. Let them express themselves fully before you respond. Interruptions can be frustrating and can hinder effective communication.
• Ask Clarifying Questions: Don't hesitate to ask questions for clarification. If something is unclear, seek more information with open-ended questions like, 'Could you explain that further?' or 'Can you give me an example?'

Strive for Clarity and Brevity

• Use Simple Language: Avoid jargon and complex vocabulary, especially when communicating with a diverse audience. Simplicity often leads to better understanding. For instance, instead of saying, 'I'll optimize the process,' you can say, 'I'll make the process more efficient.'
• Organize Your Thoughts: Before communicating, take a moment to organize your ideas. Structure your message logically, starting with the most important points. This makes it easier for others to follow your thoughts.
• Consider Your Audience: Tailor your message to your audience's level of expertise and familiarity with the topic. Adjust the level of detail accordingly. For instance, when explaining a complex concept to a non-expert, provide a simple analogy or real-life example to enhance understanding.

Plan and Get Ready in Advance

Improving communication skills often involves some level of preparation. Whether you're giving a presentation, having a difficult conversation, or even participating in a casual discussion, planning in advance can boost your confidence and ensure your message is well-received:

• Outline Your Key Points: Before any important conversation or communication event, create a simple outline of the key points you want to convey. This can help you stay on track and ensure you cover all the essential information.
• Anticipate Questions: Think about potential questions or concerns your audience might have. Preparing answers in advance not only demonstrates your expertise but also helps you respond confidently during the conversation.
• Practice if Necessary: For significant presentations or speeches, practicing your message is essential. It's one of the effective time management tips to allocate time for rehearsal. This helps you refine your delivery and reduce nervousness, making your communication more effective. If you find yourself short on time or need additional assistance, consider seeking support from professionals who offer services where you can pay for essay .

Monitor Your Tone

Your tone of voice and body language can convey as much, if not more, than your words. Being aware of your tone is crucial for effective communication:

• Be Mindful of Your Tone: Pay attention to the tone of your voice. Is it friendly, neutral, or confrontational? Adjust your tone to match the message and the situation. For example, when giving feedback, a constructive and empathetic tone is usually more effective than a critical one.
• Watch Your Body Language: Your body language, including gestures, posture, and facial expressions, can either support or contradict your words. If you're saying one thing, but your body language says another, it can create confusion or mistrust.
• Consider Cultural Differences: Different cultures may interpret tone and body language differently. Be aware of cultural nuances, especially in cross-cultural communication. What is seen as friendly in one culture might be seen as intrusive in another.

Pay Attention to Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal cues often speak louder than words. Your body language, facial expressions, and gestures can convey a wealth of information to those you're communicating with. Here's how to leverage nonverbal communication effectively:

• Maintain Eye Contact : When engaged in a conversation, maintaining appropriate eye contact is a hallmark of good communication skills. It demonstrates attentiveness and shows that you are actively participating in the interaction.
• Use Open and Inviting Body Language: Your posture can communicate whether you are open to conversation or closed off. Keep your arms uncrossed, stand or sit with an open stance, and use friendly gestures to show your receptiveness.
• Match Your Nonverbal Cues with Your Message: Ensure that your nonverbal cues align with what you're saying. For example, if you're delivering good news, your facial expressions and body language should reflect positivity and enthusiasm.

Articulate Clearly and Minimize Ambiguity

Clear and unambiguous communication is essential to prevent misunderstandings. Ambiguity can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. Here's how to articulate your message clearly:

• Be Specific: Instead of vague statements, provide concrete details. For example, rather than saying, 'We should meet sometime next week,' say, 'Let's meet on Tuesday at 3 PM.'
• Summarize and Recap: After conveying important information, summarize the key points. This reinforces the message and ensures that everyone is on the same page.
• Ask for Clarification: If you're unsure whether your message has been understood, encourage others to ask questions or provide feedback. This proactive approach can prevent misunderstandings.

Cultivate Your Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EQ) plays a significant role in effective communication, which can also be an engaging topic for narrative essay topics . It involves recognizing, understanding, and managing your own emotions, as well as empathizing with the emotions of others. Here's how to cultivate your EQ for better communication:

• Self-awareness: Take time to understand your own emotions and how they influence your communication. Recognize your triggers and biases.
• Empathy: Put yourself in the other person's shoes. Try to understand their emotions, perspectives, and needs. Show empathy by acknowledging their feelings.
• Emotion Regulation: Learn to manage your emotions during conversations. Avoid reacting impulsively when faced with challenging or emotional situations.
• Conflict Resolution: Use your emotional intelligence communication to navigate conflicts constructively. Focus on finding mutually beneficial solutions rather than escalating disputes.

Establish Eye Contact

Eye contact is a powerful nonverbal communication tool that can convey confidence, attentiveness, and trustworthiness. When used appropriately, it enhances the quality of your interactions. Here's how to establish effective eye contact:

• Balance Engagement: When engaging in a conversation, strike a balance with eye contact. Avoid staring intensely, which can be uncomfortable, and also refrain from completely avoiding eye contact, which may signal disinterest.
• Maintain Natural Intervals: It's natural to break eye contact occasionally, especially during moments of reflection or when transitioning between thoughts. These brief breaks help maintain a comfortable and natural flow of conversation.

Remove Filler Words and Avoid Hedging Language

Filler words (such as 'um,' 'uh,' 'like,' and 'you know') and hedging language (phrases like 'I think,' 'sort of,' and 'maybe') can weaken the impact of your message and make you appear less confident. Here's how to eliminate them while also understanding how to improve communication skills overall:

• Record Yourself: To become aware of your use of filler words and hedging phrases, record your conversations or speeches. Listening to these recordings will help you pinpoint instances where you rely on these verbal crutches. This practice not only aids in reducing their use but also enhances your overall communication skills.
• Pause Instead: Instead of resorting to filler words when you need a moment to gather your thoughts, embrace the power of well-placed pauses. Pauses not only eliminate the need for filler words but also make you appear more thoughtful and composed in your speech. This can also improve your grasp of idiom figurative language and the nuances of effective communication.

Project Confidence

Confidence in communication can inspire trust and credibility. It's not just about what you say but how you say it. Here are some ways that will not only help you project confidence in your communication but also teach you how to be confident in school :

• Maintain Good Posture: Stand or sit up straight with your shoulders back. Good posture not only makes you appear more confident but also helps with breath control for clear articulation.
• Use Gestures Purposefully: Gestures can enhance your message, but use them purposefully and naturally. Avoid excessive or distracting movements, which can undermine your confidence.
• Practice Positive Self-Talk: Believe in yourself and your message. Replace negative self-talk with affirmations that boost your self-confidence.

Communication Skills: Intriguing Facts and Stats

Communication is a universal aspect of human existence, but it's also a fascinating field of study filled with surprising facts and statistics. Here are some intriguing insights into the world of communication:

• Words Convey Only a Fraction: While words are essential for communication, research suggests that they only make up about 7% of our message's impact. The tone of voice and nonverbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, account for the remaining 93%. This underscores the importance of the way we say things.
• The 7-38-55 Rule: Communication researcher Albert Mehrabian proposed a rule stating that in conveying feelings and attitudes, 7% comes from words, 38% from tone of voice, and 55% from body language. While this rule is often debated and may not apply universally, it highlights the multifaceted nature of communication.
• Listening Is Challenging: People generally remember only about 25-50% of what they hear, according to research by Edgar Dale. This statistic emphasizes the importance of active listening skills for effective communication.
• Texting vs. Talking: In the digital age, similar to the digital transformation in higher education , texting has emerged as a predominant mode of communication. Surprisingly, a study by the Pew Research Center found that adults aged 18-29 send and receive an average of 88 text messages per day, compared to just 17 phone calls. This shift in communication methods highlights the evolving landscape of human interaction.
• The Power of First Impressions: Studies have indicated that people form first impressions within just 7-17 seconds of meeting someone. This quick judgment underscores the significance of nonverbal cues and initial interactions in communication.

Books on Communication Skills​

If you're eager to further enhance your skills and delve deeper into the art of effective interaction, there is a wealth of valuable books on communication skills available. Here's a selection of recommended reads:

• 'Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High' by Al Switzler, Joseph Grenny, and Ron McMillan: This book offers practical strategies for navigating high-stakes conversations with confidence, focusing on maintaining dialogue and achieving mutual understanding.
• 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Dale Carnegie: A classic in the realm of interpersonal communication, this book provides timeless advice on building positive relationships, influencing others, and becoming a more effective communicator.
• 'Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life' by Marshall B. Rosenberg: Dr. Rosenberg presents a compassionate and empathetic approach to communication, emphasizing the importance of connecting with others on a deeper level through mindful dialogue.
• 'Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds' by Carmine Gallo: Drawing from TED Talks, this book uncovers the techniques used by some of the world's most engaging speakers, offering practical advice for improving your public-speaking skills.
• 'The Charisma Myth: How Anyone Can Master the Art and Science of Personal Magnetism' by Olivia Fox Cabane: Charisma is a valuable asset in communication, and this book explores how to develop and exude charisma to enhance your interactions with others.

Where to Enhance These Skills

Understanding how to improve communication skills can be greatly facilitated through online educational platforms that offer courses, workshops, and resources. Here are some reputable platforms where you can hone your skills:

• Toastmasters International: Toastmasters is a renowned organization that focuses on improving public speaking and leadership skills. They offer in-person and online meetings, providing a supportive environment for practicing and enhancing your communication abilities.
• Dale Carnegie Training: The Dale Carnegie programs offer comprehensive training in interpersonal skills, public speaking, and effective communication strategies.
• Skillshare: Skillshare features an array of classes in communication-related topics, including storytelling, effective email communication, and interpersonal skills.
• MasterClass: MasterClass provides access to lessons taught by renowned experts in various fields. You can find courses on communication by experts such as Chris Voss, a negotiation expert and former FBI hostage negotiator.
• TED Talks: While not a traditional educational platform, TED Talks offer a treasure trove of inspiring and informative talks on communication-related topics. These talks can provide valuable insights and ideas for enhancing your skills.

Additionally, if you're specifically interested in Harvard free online courses , you might want to explore its offerings, which often include communication-related subjects among their diverse range of offerings.

Concluding Remarks

By applying the strategies and insights discussed here and exploring educational resources, you can become a more confident, empathetic, and impactful communicator. With practice and dedication, the journey to enhancing your communication skills is well within reach, offering the potential for greater success, meaningful relationships, and personal growth. Additionally, expanding your social circle in an academic environment can further refine your interpersonal skills, so be sure to check out our article on how to make friends at college .

Ready for an Essay that Shines Like a Polished Gem?

Whether you seek clarity, persuasion, or a touch of humor, our expert team can create the perfect essay to help you excel academically or professionally.

Related Articles

20 Ways to Improve Your Communication Skills

“Communication” is a buzzword these days.

You’ve probably seen magazine articles about communication skills with your partner, or self-help business gurus talk about the importance of communication skills in the workplace.

We hear about communication constantly. With good reason – it really is a huge deal when it comes to having a smooth and enjoyable personal and professional life .

But hearing about it isn’t enough to absorb all that knowledge and be able to apply it to your own unique situation. This is especially true for those who might feel like they’re struggling a bit with effective communication skills.

We can’t all have a natural gift, after all.

If you’re curious what everyone keeps talking about, or how to improve your own communication skills, you’re in the right place.

In this article, we’re going to look at the three main types of communication skills, some examples, and loads of actionable tips you can start using today to help strengthen those skills. 

Here’s how I’m going to break down this mini communication skills training. We’ll go over:

• The three main types of communication skills: verbal, non-verbal, and written
• General tips to improve your communication across all types
• A section dedicated to each of the three types specifically

Let’s do this.

Start selling online now with Shopify

Three Different Types of Communication Skills

→ Click Here to Launch Your Online Business with Shopify

Communication is considered one of the most important interpersonal skills , or how we interact with and relate to other people. There are three main types of communication skills: verbal, non-verbal, and written.

Verbal. Verbal communication is when you’re talking to other people, whether it’s face-to-face, on a video call, or over the phone. Your choice of words matter (a lot), but so do smaller details like the tone of your voice and the timing of when you say things.

Non-verbal. Non-verbal communication, also referred to as body language, is what people see when they’re looking at you during a conversation, either face-to-face or on video. It’s your facial expressions, eye contact, and the positions of your body. You might not realize that your body language is saying, “I don’t want to be talking to you right now,” even if it’s an important conversation.

Written. These days, written communication mostly show up in emails and chat messages, including an email to your partner or a customer service email for work. This can also include chats on platforms like Facebook Messenger or Slack . If you’re managing a remote team , it’s important for your written communication skills to be on-point.

How to Improve Communication Skills: All Three Types

For business communication skills as well as personal communication skills, the key is how you’re approaching your interactions. You can even call it a strategy.

Here are some strategic tips for building communication skills.

1. Be an “active listener”

Even if you’re a great listener, I guarantee there’s still some areas where you can improve. A great way to find your weak spots is to look at the active listening model.

The concept of active listening means that you’re involved and engaged in what the other person is saying, as opposed to being passive and letting the conversation pass you by.

There’s no single model, but your research will turn up the same ideas, including:

• Pay attention when someone else has something to say
• Ask them open-ended questions so that you can get an idea of what they want
• Ask probing questions if there are specific things you’d like to learn about
• Request clarification on anything you’re uncertain about
• Paraphrase what they said and repeat it back to them, so you can be sure you understood them correctly
• Be attuned to their feelings and your own, to make sure everyone’s needs are being met
• Summarize at the end of your interaction so everyone has the same takeaways and next steps

2. Speak up about your thoughts and ideas

Just like it’s important to understand what others are seeking, make sure that you’re expressing your own needs. Nobody will ever know if you don’t tell them, right?

This communication skill is especially important if you’re a leader, because what you say is setting the stage for your team to follow. If you’re an open and honest communicator, you’re setting an example for everyone else to do the same. 

They’ll be more willing to collaborate with others, to compromise when it’s necessary, and to face difficult situations with an open mind and confidence that things will work out in the end.

3. Try not to make assumptions

It can be easy to assume that you know what someone else wants. But this is a huge cause of misunderstandings – and a reason that misunderstandings can escalate into conflict.

That’s where the active listening model can save the day. Part of great communication skills means having empathy: trying to understand what’s going on in the other person’s head.

This is important because what we say isn’t always a completely accurate representation of what we really want. Especially in a complicated situation, or one where it’s easy to get overwhelmed or embarrassed, it’s common that we try to disguise or hide our real needs.

When you ask questions, listen closely to the answers, and repeat back what you think they want, you’re playing a big role in minimizing misunderstandings and lowering the risk of conflict.

It’s like that famous George Bernard Shaw quote: “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”

4. Practice self-awareness, especially during tough conversations

People with advanced communication skills have a solid grasp on their own emotions. They know how to control them when they’re upset or over-excited, and they don’t let them take over the conversation or cause unnecessary drama.

It’s important to stay level-headed when you’re reacting to something you don’t like. If you feel your heart start to thump, or your face start to get hot, take a break. Try to find some alone time where you can calm yourself down.

Another key part of self-awareness is being able to admit when you’re wrong. It might feel like a huge blow to your ego, but trust me – you’ll likely find that by admitting your mistakes and trying your best to prevent them moving forward, you’ll build respect and integrity in the eyes of your loved ones and colleagues.

5. Don’t be accusatory when raising an issue

Tough situations are bound to happen. Even if you feel like someone did something that was completely wrong, keep your cool when you have the discussion.

If you start the conversation with an accusation that something is their fault, it’s practically an invitation for a fight. Our natural reaction to accusation is to get defensive… and nothing good comes from that conversation.

For example, avoid saying they “always” or “never” do something when it’s only been a few times. Instead, state only the facts, use empathy, and reframe the focus to how you can fix it.

Instead of telling your team member, “You’re always late for meetings,” try something like, “I see on the attendance sheet that you’ve been late two times this week. Is everything okay?”

This opens the door for you to see what might be wrong and how you can help make sure it doesn’t keep happening.

How to Improve Communication Skills: Verbal

• Be brief and clear

Have you ever sat through a coworker’s long and winding story when you have a lot of work to finish? It’s rough. Try to get to the main points quickly so that you’re not that person.

• Don’t be afraid of silence every now and then

It can seem like silence is unbearable, but it’s not always a bad thing. Don’t start blabbering just for the sake of eliminating silence. (It’s hard, but fight the urge.) Your partner and colleagues will thank you when you have a grasp of when it’s okay to be quiet.

• Find a “bridge” if you need to change the subject

Changing the subject tactfully is an art. Try looking for a “bridge” that can connect where the conversation is now and where you want it to be. Use connecting phrases like, “The important thing is…” or “I agree with you, but…” or “Here’s what I do know…”

• Get rid of those “um’s” and “uh’s”

This feels like common sense, but the average person uses fillers way more than they think they do. Try recording yourself in a presentation and listen back for how often you say them. Then moving forward, stay mindful of the fillers and speak more slowly so that you have time to think ahead.

• Plan and practice what you’ll say

Of course, there are a lot of impromptu conversations where you don’t have the opportunity to plan and practice. But when you have the chance, take even 30 seconds to go over your key points. This can work wonders for your communication skills.

How to Improve Communication Skills: Non-verbal

• Make eye contact while someone is talking

This is the number one tip for showing someone that you’re paying attention to what they have to say. Hold firm eye contact, but don’t get creepy. There’s a fine line here.

• Avoid fidgeting or distracting movements

Don’t readjust in your chair seven times. Don’t click your pen open and closed over and over. Don’t shuffle through your papers during a board meeting, or click through your browser tabs during a Zoom call.

• Keep good posture

Another one of those tips that seems obvious, but is surprisingly easy to overlook. When I was working on mastering this non-verbal communication skill, I set an alarm to go off every 30 minutes that said “POSTURE!” Most of the time, I was slouching.

• Don’t cross your arms

Some people think this is a “power pose.” This might be true in some situations, but in others, it makes you look blocked off from the other person. It can give the impression that you can’t wait to get out of there, which isn’t helpful for a good conversation.

• Pay attention to the same cues from others

Non-verbal cues might be unintentional, but they’re often intentional too. If your coworker isn’t making eye contact or constantly fidgeting, ask yourself if it might be a reaction to you telling a story that’s too long or bugging them when they’re busy.

How to Improve Communication Skills: Written

• Never respond to messages when you’re upset

Have you ever sent an email when you’re mad, then later came back to it and thought, “Damn it. Why did I say that?” I’ve been there. If you get a message that upsets you, take a five or ten minute break to cool down before you respond. This can work wonders for your relationships.

• Write descriptive titles and email subject lines

How annoying is it to get an email that says “(no subject)?” Title your emails as succinctly and specifically as possible. Tell them exactly what it contains. Instead of “Meeting,” try a subject line like, “Request to reschedule our 2pm meeting to 3pm.”

• Use active voice

You might remember hearing this tip a lot in school. Instead of saying “The paperwork was filed,” say “I filed the paperwork.” This helps to get rid of any confusion about how things are getting done. In addition to being more clear, active voice is more engaging for your message recipients.

• Keep your words and sentences simple

A general rule is that your sentences shouldn’t be longer than two lines long. Look for opportunities to cut them in half or make them shorter. You should also try to avoid over-complicating your writing with big words that some people might not understand.

• Keep it short and sweet

Similarly to not telling a long and winding story face-to-face, a long and winding email isn’t the most enjoyable experience either. In addition to making others feel like you’re wasting their time, it also boosts the chances that they’ll miss important details because they skimmed over them or flat-out didn’t read them.

How Good Are Your Communication Skills?

As you read through this article, what tips and points stuck out to you as room for improvement? And what did you give yourself a pat on the back for?

Like I mentioned earlier: even if you were born with a natural gift for engaging with other people smoothly and easily, there’s always room for improvement. Strong communication skills grow and evolve just as your personal and professional relationships grow and evolve.

There are plenty of handbooks to help you, but the best communication skills are learned through experience. 

Start with self-awareness – stay in-tune with how you’re communicating now and how that aligns with your communication goals. Then shift into awareness of others – make sure you’re on the same page and you’re reading the right cues.

And remember: if this feels like a big undertaking, there’s no shame in asking for help through a mentor , coach, or class.

Want to Learn More?

• How to Change Your Life Completely in 10 Powerful Steps
• Entrepreneurial Mindset: 20 Ways to Think Like an Entrepreneur
• Work Smarter Not Harder With These 10 Simple Tips
• Be 10x More Productive, Stop Setting Goals and Start Building Systems

Oberlo uses cookies to provide necessary site functionality and improve your experience. By using our website, you agree to our privacy policy.

• Healthcare and Nursing

How to Improve Communication Skills

30 Oct 2022

Format: APA

Academic level: College

Paper type: Essay (Any Type)

Downloads: 0

Communication is an essential skill that every human being needs in the current world. The demand for effective communication skills in workplaces, schools and informal relationships is on the rise. Effective communication goes beyond talking and listening to integrate the right message for the right audience and effective delivery of the message. Communication breakdown can lead to conflict in relationships and time-wasting. One of the factors that are a prerequisite to healthy inter-personal relationships is effective communication. Therefore there is a need to improve communication skills and interpersonal interaction through paying attention to non-verbal cues and having emotional intelligence. 

Non-verbal cues complement the message conveyed during communication. Non-verbal cues include facial expressions, eye contact, gestures, physical contact and silence (Barnum and Wolniansky, 1989). Non-verbal cues give information about one’s emotions and intentions behind the message. Some of the ways of improving communication skills by non-verbal cues include maintaining eye contact. Eye contact shows that you are actively listening to the message. Also, using hand gestures and appropriate facial expression ensures that the audience gets immediate feedback as they communicate. Expressing one’s message accompanied by non-verbal cues enhances delivery and comprehension of the message, therefore improving communication and interpersonal skills. 

Delegate your assignment to our experts and they will do the rest.

Emotional intelligence empowers an individual to understand their emotions and those of their audience better. Emotional intelligence refers to being able to reason beyond emotions and using emotional knowledge in acting and decision-making (Mayer, Roberts and Barsade, 2008). At times, our emotions can hinder effective communication causing a communication breakdown. Responses such as overreacting and shouting prevent effective communication. It is also essential to ensure that during communication, one understands and empathizes with the emotions of the audience. Emotional intelligence ensures that during communication, emotions are incorporated with enough reason and thought. 

In conclusion, it is important to improve communication skills to ensure good interpersonal relationships. Observing non-verbal cues and emotional intelligence are some of the ways of improving communication. 

References 

Barnum, C., & Wolniansky, N. (1989). Taking cues from body language. Management Review, 78(6), 59-61. 

Mayer, J. D., Roberts, R. D., & Barsade, S. G. (2008). Human abilities: Emotional intelligence. Annu. Rev. Psychol., 59, 507-536. 

• Environmental Approaches towards Prevention of Usage of Marijuana
• The Management of Medical Information

Select style:

StudyBounty. (2023, September 16). How to Improve Communication Skills . https://studybounty.com/how-to-improve-communication-skills-essay

Hire an expert to write you a 100% unique paper aligned to your needs.

Related essays

We post free essay examples for college on a regular basis. Stay in the know!

Vaccine Choice Canada Interest Group

Regulation for nursing practice staff development meeting, moral and ethical decision making, covid-19 and ethical dilemmas on nurses.

Words: 1274

Health Insurance and Reimbursement

Words: 1239

Preventing Postoperative Wound Infections

Running out of time .

Entrust your assignment to proficient writers and receive TOP-quality paper before the deadline is over.

How to Improve Communication Skills

By: Jen Denton, Student Success Coach on July 27, 2023 at 1:17 PM

Your story matters. Family, friends, teachers, classmates, and potential employers want to hear and understand your unique experiences and special abilities. Communicating clearly and effectively is vital to building personal and professional relationships and pursuing educational and career goals. Students and job-seekers hoping to make a solid impression may ask, “How do I improve my communication skills?”

We are here to help. Essential Education is committed to helping you succeed in all aspects of life. Building strong communication skills can supercharge your success in several ways. Read on to gain simple, easy-to-apply tips to enhance communication and confidence. You will learn different forms of communication and tips to develop, practice, and upgrade these vital skills.

Top Ten Tips for Improving Communication

If you want to polish your communication skills, it’s important to note that communication is much more than what you say. Verbal, non-verbal, written correspondence and visual images convey distinct messages. Mastering each of these areas of communication will help you become an exceptional communicator. As you read through the following tips, consider how to apply each suggestion in your speech, body movements, the sentences you write, and the examples you use to express your ideas.

1. Learn how to listen (really listen)

One of the most important steps to becoming a great communicator is learning to be a good listener. Effective communication is not one-sided. The art of conversation has two players: the speaker and the listener. Successful speakers share thoughtful messages. Instead of thinking about what you’ll say when the speaker is finished, listen to what they have to say before formulating your response. Active listeners show authentic engagement with the speaker. Here are some helpful hints to develop your listening skills.

• Focus. Reassure the speaker you are listening by keeping eye contact, smiling when appropriate, nodding, or expressing brief verbal affirmations.
• Avoid distractions. Ringing phones, other people and places, or even your own wandering thoughts can give the impression that you are not fully engaged with what is being shared.
• Paraphrase. Try to repeat back or summarize what the other person said to let them know they were heard and that you understand their viewpoint.
• Be responsive. Comment based on what that person just shared to continue the conversation.

To learn more about listening, we recommend the book The Lost Art of Listening by Michael P. Nichols.

2. Engage your listeners.

When it’s your turn to speak, it’s important to bring others into the conversation by helping them feel invested in what you're saying. You can engage your listeners in a variety of ways. Show them how the topic relates to them and why what you have to share is relevant. Whether you’re communicating with an individual or a group, you can do this by saying their name, referencing relevant examples, or connecting the conversation to something of personal interest. You can also engage them with conversations designed to invite discussion and collaboration. An engaged listener will be excited to communicate with you and feel motivated to learn more.

3. Ask questions.

Good communicators ask questions! Questions show you are invested in the message and interested in learning more. Thoughtful questions are valuable communication tools in multiple areas of life. In personal relationships, questions allow conversations to go deeper and create stronger connections. In education, wise students know that asking questions helps them understand difficult concepts and build long-term memory. In work, asking questions makes sure teams operate smoothly and avoid miscommunication.

It’s also important to note that job interviews are not just for answering questions. Potential employers are equally interested in a candidate's questions when being considered for a new position. Asking questions shows curiosity, a top characteristic of critical thinkers and creative problem solvers. Not sure what questions to ask a potential employer? Here are some to consider.

4. Be clear.

Your message matters. State it clearly, knowing that sometimes simpler is better. Rarely does clarity require complex words or elaborate vocabulary. Clear communicators simply organize their thoughts. In other words, they think before they speak. Consider your words carefully in conversation and writing. Think through, read over and edit any correspondence to ensure you are sending the message you intended to send. From phone calls and chats to essays and emails, communicating clearly is a desired and admired skill.

5. Be concise.

It’s essential to find the balance between over-communicating and under-communicating. Using too many words and examples can overwhelm your audience, while too much explanation can lead to confusion. An excellent way to gauge your level of communication is to check in periodically to make your listeners understand you. This could require asking questions to check for understanding and providing less or more detail going forward.

6. Be aware of body language.

Even in silence, people communicate emotions without saying a word. Nonverbal communication is a powerful reflection of mood, attitude, and attention. Facial expressions, gestures, and physical reactions speak volumes and can have negative and positive implications. Solid communicators know that body language is just as, if not more important, than spoken language. While it’s not a perfect science, body language can be managed to project positivity. Consider these non-verbal communication suggestions.

• Start with a smile. A welcoming facial expression can go a long way.
• Pay attention to posture. If you’re slumped over or turned away, that can convey boredom or disinterest.
• Manage your manners. Holding a door, extending a firm handshake, and maintaining solid eye contact, reflect hospitality and respect.
• Manage distractions. Quality communication is distraction-free. When engaging in focused communication, silence electronics, avoid looking away, or fidget with nearby items, hair, or clothing. These actions may unintentionally show a lack of care or engagement.
• Know your “tells.” Pay attention to your go-to mannerisms and consider the message you may be sending. If you are unaware of your nonverbal cues, get some feedback from a close friend or family member. You may be doing off-putting things without even knowing it.

7. Know your audience.

Who you are speaking to should determine what and how your message is communicated. Rarely would you speak or respond to a friend or family member in the same way you would a coworker or supervisor. You would not use the same words or expressions in casual conversation as in a presentation or job interview. Consider your audience. People are different. Situations are different. So think about who you are talking to when you choose your words and actions. This could include the formality or informality of the conversation, the level of detail or personal information you provide, and the kind of humor or examples used to tell a story or share an idea. Use good judgment and adjust your message to fit your audience.

8. Manage your emotions.

Sometimes communication evokes emotion. Certain circumstances can result in feelings of excitement, fear, anger, frustration, or disappointment. It’s important to communicate how you’re feeling in a productive manner. Managing and expressing your emotions effectively will help you maintain strong relationships personally, academically, and professionally.

When you feel a strong emotion, it’s a good idea to pause before reacting. Communicating out of emotion is rarely helpful. Don’t be afraid to ask for some time to process before responding. Think about how you are feeling and why. When communicating your feelings, be careful not to place blame. Use “I feel” statements rather than accusatory statements. This technique will help you express your feelings without confusion or defensiveness. Check out Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life: Life-Changing Tools for Healthy Relationships by Marshall B. Rosenberg to learn more about communicating your emotions.

9. Practice patience.

Patience is a pivotal piece of quality communication. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the hurried pace of life and rush to make decisions, send communication, or suggest changes before you’re ready. Take a breath before responding to difficult questions or challenging situations. Take time to ensure you answer in a way that’s best for everyone and not simply a reactionary response. If you need more time to respond, it’s a good idea to communicate that intention to avoid frustration. Provide a time frame for your response or indicate that you await additional information before responding. Remember to reciprocate by extending patience to others and providing the time and space needed to communicate effectively.

10. Ask for help.

The best way to improve your communication skills is to be honest with others about what you are working on and ask for feedback. Once you ask for advice, you can have an open conversation about what’s working and what isn’t. This reflection will provide honest, actionable feedback to improve your skills. We all have communication strengths and weaknesses. Part of continued personal and professional development is strengthening your trouble spots. To ask for feedback, follow up with others after a communication you would like to improve. These conversations provide clarity and create a roadmap to improving your skills much faster, as you have specific things on which to focus. If you struggle with written communication, continue to practice and put yourself through the paces to improve that communication. If speaking to others is difficult, then work on that messaging aspect.

Improve your communication skills with online courses.

Taking classes can help you take your communication skills to the next level. Online courses like Work Essentials will teach you valuable employability skills with step-by-step lessons and real-life scenarios. Learning online will allow you to advance your abilities independently and at your own pace. Communication continues to top the list of skills employers want and need. Strong communicators become stand-out employees when they put these skills to work. Essential Education wants to be your partner in personal and professional development. Let us help you improve your communication skills and equip you with tools to thrive in study, work, and life.

Check out our coaching webinar, Learn Communication Skills for the Workplace.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How can I improve my communication skills?

Practice talking in front of a mirror to improve your body language and public speaking skills. Practice writing emails or social media posts using AI tools to correct spelling and grammar. Ask for help and feedback from friends and family, or seek expert advice from teachers or career professionals.

• If I want to practice communication skills, where can I do that?

You can practice communication skills just about anywhere! Casual gatherings, social media interactions, classroom activities, and everyday interactions provide opportunities to try new communication techniques and tools. Think of every conversation you have as personal practice and note what went well and what didn’t in every interaction. Identify and choose an area of communication you’d like to improve and focus on.

• What jobs require good communication skills?

Communication is a skill you can use for almost any job. Most jobs require solid communication skills, from interacting with customers and clients to collaborating with coworkers and managers. Sales, customer service, technical support, retail positions, and healthcare roles (plus many more!) need qualified communicators. Job candidates with these skills can quickly move from employable to employed!

Related Posts

How to write & pass a ged essay, how to drop out from high school successfully in 2024, ged reading & writing study guide 2024 [ged academy].

How to Improve Your Written Communication Skills

Table of Contents

Why is written communication so difficult, ten tactics to improve written communication, improved written communication has its benefits..

Writing is an everyday activity for many people. So, you’d think that written communication would come almost naturally. Unfortunately, it is an ongoing challenge for writers and their readers. Messages can be misunderstood or missed entirely, even when they seem so obvious. Fortunately, there are many straightforward ways to up your writing game and become a better communicator. This article will explain why it’s so difficult to convey information in text and ten valuable tactics to improve your written communication.

Excellent communication in any format is easy to understand and allows the reader to respond appropriately. When we communicate in person, verbal communication dominates the exchange. However, these words are supplemented with non-verbal communication. The tone of voice, hand gestures, and body physicality can clarify messages, even when speech is not entirely clear. In parallel, the audience can immediately respond to the information with their own non-verbal communication. Looks of confusion or boredom tell the messenger that their material is not translating, and the speaker can adjust their efforts in real-time.

Alternatively, in written communication, the words have to do all the heavy lifting. If the reader furrows their brow in confusion, there’s no additional clarity available. Therefore, the entirety of the message must be conveyed through the text. That’s a big job.

A persuasive writing  myth further compounds the challenge: fancier writing is better writing. Many writers have been led to believe that verbose writing with snazzy vocabulary comes across as clever. However, this writing style makes for poor communication. The reader often struggles to find the core message when it is meandering in excessive wording and jargon . Remember: the best writing is clear, direct, and concise.

Anyone can be an excellent written communicator with practice. To support your written communication efforts, we've outlined our top ten tactics to strengthen your written communication.

Stop writing, starting thinking.

Effective written communication starts before you type your first word. To write clearly, you have to think clearly. Therefore, before you begin writing, step back, and align your thoughts on the communique. This process can be an internal thought process resulting in a rough outline for simple texts or a thorough mind-mapping exploration resulting in a structured framework for more complex work.

A common writing mistake is to work out your thoughts while writing the text. Expecting writing to clarify your thoughts is putting the cart before the horse. The writing process will take longer than necessary. It will result in a document likely confusing structure and message, required an extensive edit. Planning your written text will save time and produce better results.

Write for your audience.

Written communication follows the same rule as all communication: audience is everything.  As you plan your writing, take the time to understand for whom you’re writing. Why is she reading this document? What’s in it for her? What do you want her to do? How much does she know about this topic? Your written communication is not for you; it is always for the reader. Writing with the reader in mind will produce more effective written communication.

Tools are valuable but imperfect.

Writing tools , like Microsoft Readability Assessment or Grammarly , are great supports to improve your written text. These tools will alert you to errors ranging from minor typos to inappropriate tone. Yet, these tools are only tools. They are only as useful as the person operating them. Integrate tools into your workflow, but remember that you are ultimately the writer and editor. Tools do not catch all errors, and a careful eye is still required.

Keep it simple, silly.

In writing as in life, the simplest solution is generally the best one. The simplest, most direct way to write something is best. Don’t use eight words when two will do.  Aim for short sentences and short paragraphs to keep the information digestible and accessible.

Simplicity also applies to any request or call to action. If you’re writing to ask a colleague or friend to do something, be polite but direct. Some writers tend to sidestep a direct ask with meandering wording and conditional phrasing that water down the message. To ensure the request is conveyed, be direct.

State your assumptions.

Misunderstandings in written communication often arise from assumptions. As a writer, you may be required to make assumptions. For example, you believe that your reader has read the same report, received a certain work directive, or is familiar with the latest policy change. However, if these assumptions are incorrect, he may misunderstand and even take incorrect action. A strong understanding of the audience will minimize assumptions. They can be entirely avoided by stating any assumptions you make within the text. He can then make their own assessment of the context they need to understand the written message. 

Know that the first draft is a first draft.

Writing is an iterative process. Good writers do not produce great work on the first try. Good writers have a robust editing process that allows time for the text to become great. So, as you begin to write, acknowledge that this version is not the one your reader will receive. This thought process forces you to integrate time to edit. In addition, it can make a blank page less intimidating because even if your first iteration is terrible, it can always be improved.

Write and read often.

Writing, like any other aptitude, requires practice. Aim to write daily to keep your written communication skills fresh. If your regular daily work does not include writing, set a personal word count to achieve each day. Whether it’s 100 words or 1,000 words, consistent practice will hone your skills.

To gain inspiration, read excellent writing. Find writers or topics that intrigue you and enjoy the written word. Analyze a great article or report to understand what made it so accessible. Perhaps the article was structured particularly thoughtfully. Maybe the author’s variation in sentence structure kept the report engaging. Seek out first-rate writers and emulate your favorite practices (without plagiarizing, of course). 

Edit fiercely.

Editing is vital to improving written communication. Your draft text must go through a rigorous editing process to ensure that it is as clear as possible for your reader. Take a break from your document and re-read it with fresh eyes. Read the text out loud; if it’s awkward to say aloud, then the text requires revision. Look for excessive wording or repetitive sentences and sculpt them into a more cohesive thought. Review your text’s structure and see if the order is logical and appropriate.

If you’re unsure how to edit – ask for help. Solicit a friend or colleague to read the text for you. Their fresh viewpoint will highlight areas for improvement. Take their constructive criticism well because external feedback is the best tool to understand your writing and how to improve it.

Put yourself in your reader’s shoes.

At the risk of repeating myself: put yourself in the audience’s shoes. The audience should be top of mind in the final edit to assess if the text communicates the correct information. Return to the original prompt, whether it’s an email request or a proposal, and verify that the original goals are met, and initial questions are answered.

Actively look for reader misunderstandings. See if your sentences could be interpreted in different ways. If so, compose more precise phrasing. Spell out acronyms and remove jargon, even if you believe it is a common language. 

Don’t forget to proofread.

Editing is a process of transforming your text into the best version of itself. Proofreading, on the other hand, is a final check before written communication goes out the door. Proofreading is as critical for a brief email as a 280-page report because it makes sure the text is error-free. Look for typos, double-check names, verify grammatical consistency, and other steps to make sure that your well-edited document is final and truly ready for the reader.

‘Excellent written communication’ is listed as a desired quality across disciplines and career paths. As more workplaces move online , written communication is becoming even more essential. Integrating these tactics will not only hone a high-value skill but will also strengthen your current interactions with colleagues and clients.

Related Articles

Bear with me or bare with me, 10 best proposal examples, 8 tools to help you create a proposal [free & paid], get notified of new articles.

• Business Writing Skills (54)
• Business Grammar (52)
• Technical Writing (32)
• Business Writing Resources (26)
• Business Email Writing (17)
• Business Writing Training (12)
• Business Proposals (10)
• Business Report Writing (7)
• Business Proofreading (4)
• Sales Writing (3)
• Executive Summary Writing (2)
• Customer Support Writing (1)
• Bailey Lang (1)
• Elisabeth O'Quinn (14)
• Grace Cuddy (6)
• Haley Larsen (4)
• Kara Latz (10)
• Katie Almeida Spencer (31)
• Malcolm Stiefel (1)
• Mary Cullen (134)
• Samantha Taylor (2)
• Terrance Collins (1)
• Tom DuPuis (10)

• - Google Chrome

Intended for healthcare professionals

• Access provided by Google Indexer
• My email alerts
• BMA member login
• Username * Password * Forgot your log in details? Need to activate BMA Member Log In Log in via OpenAthens Log in via your institution

Search form

• Advanced search
• Search responses
• Search blogs
• How do I improve my...

How do I improve my communication skills?

• Related content
• Peer review
• BMJ Careers
• arimmer{at}bmj.com

Clarity, feedback, and reflective practice are key, finds Abi Rimmer

“Communication failures can lead to complaints”

— Emily Shepherd, medical adviser, Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS)

“Effective communication is a key part of the doctor-patient relationship and has a direct impact on patient safety. At MDDUS we have dealt with many examples of patient complaints as a result of communication failures. Many of these could have been avoided by taking some simple steps.

“One common scenario we encounter is when a doctor issues unclear instructions. Doctors have a duty to discuss their patient’s condition and treatment options in a way that’s easily understandable—this lets the patient make informed decisions. Use clear, simple, and consistent language and avoid complex explanations or jargon.

“Many complaints can be prevented by listening to the patient’s worries and adopting an open and constructive approach. It is important to avoid acting defensively and instead show empathy and foster an atmosphere that encourages questions. The GMC’s Good Medical Practice guidance states that doctors must “give patients the information they want or need in a way they can understand.

“Ask for feedback to gauge how you’re doing”

— Sarah Coope, GP and communication skills trainer and coach

“Firstly, what feedback have you had about your communication skills? It could be formal or informal, from patients or colleagues. Reflect on the feedback and clarify the impression you would like to be making. For example, if you’ve been told you seem rushed and disinterested, then set your intention as being more empathetic and calm.

“Secondly, “observe” yourself during interactions with others to gain insight into what you are doing. Notice the other person’s verbal and non-verbal responses to what you’re saying and doing—do they appear to feel understood, reassured, and respected by you? If not, what, specifically, are you doing or not doing that is getting in the way?

“Thirdly, decide what you are going to do differently, one step at a time. For example, to be more empathetic and a better listener, start by allowing the other person to fully finish what they are saying without interrupting and show that you have heard by recapping what they’ve told you and reflecting back any emotion that you pick up on.

“Finally, ask for feedback to gauge how you’re doing and keep practising until the new skills become automatic.

“Reflective practice is required to improve communication skills”

— Angela Rowlands, senior lecturer in clinical communication, Queen Mary University of London

“Extensive reflective practice is required to develop clinical skills, 1 and improving communication skills is no different. Evidence shows that doctors who attend workshops to improve their skills and then have the opportunity to get feedback about how they communicate in real consultations will learn the most. 2

“Learning to communicate effectively means making the most of every interaction. Simulated patients are often used in communication skills training, giving students and clinicians the chance to immerse themselves within a protected and controlled environment. 3 Although their use has been criticised for the occasional lack of authenticity, simulated patients can give valuable practice opportunities and feedback. 4 5

“Annie Cushing, Vivien Cook, and I have written about a project aimed at supporting students in communicating with patients in clinical settings during their undergraduate years. 6 Students learnt about communication within the consultation process and got immediate, focused, one-to-one feedback. Moreover, they were able to maximise the feedback by immediately applying it to further consultations.

“Doctors can continue their learning over time by self and peer assessment, and attending further courses or workshops.”

• ↵ Ericsson KA, Krampe RT, Tesch-Romer C. The role of deliberate practice in the acquisition of expert performance. Psychol Rev 1993 ; 100 : 363 - 406 doi:10.1037/0033-295X.100.3.363 . OpenUrl CrossRef Web of Science
• ↵ Maguire P, Pitceathly C. Key communication skills and how to acquire them. BMJ 2002 ; 325 : 697 - 700 . doi:10.1136/bmj.325.7366.697   pmid:12351365 . OpenUrl FREE Full Text
• ↵ Nestel D, Morrison T, Pritchard S. Simulated patient methodology. In: Nestel D, Bearman M, eds. Simulated patient methodology: theory, evidence and practice. John Wiley & Sons, 2014 : 1 - 30 .
• ↵ Nestel D, Kneebone R. Perspective: authentic patient perspectives in simulations for procedural and surgical skills. Acad Med 2010 ; 85 : 889 - 93 . doi:10.1097/ACM.0b013e3181d749ac   pmid:20520046 . OpenUrl PubMed
• ↵ Nestel D, Tierney T. Role-play for medical students learning about communication: guidelines for maximising benefits. BMC Med Educ 2007 ; 7 : 3 . doi:10.1186/1472-6920-7-3   pmid:17335561 . OpenUrl CrossRef PubMed
• ↵ Rowlands A, Cushing A, Cook V. Meeting the students on their own territory. International Journal of Practice based . Learn Health Soc Care 2013 1 : 93 - 7 . OpenUrl

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

21 Most Effective Ways to Improve Your English Speaking Skills

English is the world’s lingua franca , a common language that people with different native languages use to communicate with one another.

In fact, 96 countries use English to varying degrees.

That means the more fluent you are in English, the more interesting, exciting and  insightful (thoughtful) conversations you’ll have.

And, for the most part, you can boost your English speaking skills without having a classroom partner or taking stressful lessons.

In this article, we’ll take you through 21 of the best ways to improve your English speaking skills. We’re sure you’ll find at least one tip here that you haven’t tried before!

1. Learn new words and phrases every day

2. improve your pronunciation using authentic english audio and videos, 3. improvise conversations, 4. use tongue twisters, 5. learn the natural flow of english, 6. shadow english speech, 7. think in english, 8. retell a story in english, 9. use english pronunciation apps, 10. participate in public speaking events, 11. go to language cafes, 12. use formal or informal english appropriately, 13. be clear and to the point, 14. ask questions, 15. use filler phrases, 16. don’t be afraid to repeat yourself, 17. watch your body language, 18. improve your speaking by writing, 19. make friends online, 20. brush up on your cultural references and political knowledge, 21. visit an english-speaking country, and one more thing....

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

Before you learn things like improving your English pronunciation and accent , you’ll want to have a good grasp of the words and phrases used in daily conversations .

After all, it’s easier to figure out which aspects of your pronunciation can be improved if you know which words you need to practice saying aloud.

Also, you can commit to learning more words every day as you practice your speaking skills. This allows you to kill two birds with one stone (achieve two goals by doing one thing).

• Set a goal for the number of new words you want to learn daily. For example, you can learn three new words or 10 every day. Even if you only have time to learn one new word per day, that will still be 365 new words a year (assuming you commit to your goal every day). You can take note of your target number using your phone, or share it with a learning partner who can help you check your progress.
• Subscribe to an online dictionary’s “Word of the Day” section. Not sure which words you want to learn right now? You can look up English dictionaries online with the “Word of the Day” feature. Just sign up for their free subscription via email, and you can get these words delivered to your inbox every day.
• Pick up new words all around you. Go to an English-speaking area, and listen discreetly (in a way you won’t be noticed) to native conversations. Write down any words or phrases you don’t understand, and look them up later using your dictionary. Do the same with the English songs you hear on the radio. By learning new words in context, you’ll be able to remember them more easily and grow your vocabulary more quickly.
• Learn words in phrases. For example, you refer to drinks as a glass of wine , a pint of beer , a cup of tea , a pot of coffee , etc. Again, learning words in context works much better for recall.
• Learn related words. For example, the moon has four phases every month: crescent , gibbous ,  waxing and waning . It’s more efficient to learn all four words at the same time.

Even if you know a lot of words, you won’t be understood if you don’t pronounce them correctly. That’s wasting the time spent remembering words, right?

So, you need to hear or watch English words and phrases as they’re pronounced by native speakers. Some places where you can do this are:

• Online dictionaries. You’ll notice that these dictionaries often have little speaker symbols next to the new words (like this ). Some of them, like the Cambridge Dictionary , even have different audio for U.S. and U.K. pronunciations. Just click the speaker symbol, listen carefully and imitate the way the audio pronounces the word.
• YouTube. Sometimes, when you search for the pronunciation of a certain word online, the results will show YouTube videos . They often repeat the word slowly several times, which makes it easier for you to follow along.
• Podcasts. Podcasts like English Pronunciation Pod and American English Pronunciation can teach you the many aspects of American English pronunciation.

If you’re having trouble pronouncing whole words, you may want to work on pronouncing individual letters first.

For example, when pronouncing English vowels , prepare your mouth for speaking by making the sounds of the vowels A , E , I , O and U .

Make a shape with your mouth as you make these sounds.  Exaggerate the sounds and shapes—that is, make them very large and very obvious.

By practicing these basic sounds, it’ll be easier to hear the difference between, for example, a  cat and a  cut . (A cat can give you a cut, but a cut can never give you a cat! That’s just silly.)

For consonants, pronunciation practice is a bit trickier, and will require an entire post on its own. Luckily, we have a handy guide that covers how to pronounce consonants in English !

Improvisation (or just improv ) means making things up in the moment.

Here are a few improvisation ideas you can do on your own:

• Choose an ordinary object (like a pen) and make up a story about it. Talk about how important it is to you, how it helped you find your long-lost sister or how it saved your life. Be as creative as you want!
• Choose a letter of the alphabet and speak as long as you can while starting every sentence with this letter. Or start with the letter A and go through the alphabet as you speak. It’s much harder than it sounds!
• Speak for two minutes.  Set a timer to run for two minutes. Choose a random topic from places like Conversation Starters or prompts (ideas) at Writing Exercises . Then, speak about that topic for the full two minutes without giving yourself time to think about it. The first minute might be hard, but by the second minute, you’ll start to speak more confidently and comfortably. Try this as many times as it takes to get comfortable within the first minute.

Practicing improv is a good way to get more comfortable speaking with others, since it teaches you to speak without preparation.

Tongue twisters are phrases and sentences that are difficult to say quickly. They’re designed to help you see how fast you can say them before your tongue gets confused.

But saying them slowly works, too! It’s an excellent way to work on your pronunciation and how clearly you speak. You can choose one of these English tongue twisters , making sure to correctly and clearly say every word.

Once you’re comfortable saying the words slowly, try to say them faster, gradually increasing your speed with each new repetition. Even if you get some words wrong (and believe me, even native English speakers struggle with tongue twisters sometimes), you’ll at least have a good laugh about it!

Being able to say individual words correctly is great, but the secret to speaking English fluently lies in the flow of your sentences.

Whenever you read a piece of poetry, listen to a melodic song or watch a hilarious sitcom, pay attention to:

• Linking. Notice how native speakers link words together. This refers to joining two sounds, making a sound disappear or changing a sound to make it flow better.
• I + am =  I’m
• he + will =  he’ll
• they + have =  they’ve
• do + not =  don’t
• Stress.  There are stressed syllables in a word and stressed words in a sentence .
• Rhythm.  The rhythm is the overall result of stress, contractions and linking. It’s the ups and downs, or the musical features of English. You can also think of it as the speed and “sound” of your speaking.

Finding your perfect speaking rhythm can go a long way toward boosting your fluency. A good speaking pace is comfortable (both for you and the listener), keeps you focused and gives you enough time to think through what you want to say.

Here’s how you can improve the flow of your spoken English:

• Find a short paragraph, or even just a sentence at your reading level. You can find lots of short reading passages for different levels here . You can also open your favorite English book to a random page and choose a paragraph or two.
• Get a recorder or video camera. If your phone doesn’t already have a recorder installed, you can download this for iOS or this for Android.
• Say the paragraph or sentence slowly, then again faster, and again.
• Once you reach a speed that doesn’t feel comfortable or is too fast, slow down.
• Repeat this a number of times, making sure to record what you say every time.

Listen to the recordings. How do they sound? You should’ve felt a difference when you were speaking, too. Speaking slowly helps you work on pronunciation and enunciation (how clearly you say things). Speaking fast helps you work on your fluency, since you’re not worrying about every single word you say.

Shadowing English basically involves listening to how a native speaker says something and copying it.

Here are some ideas on how to shadow English:

• Pick your favorite video with subtitles. Make sure it’s something you enjoy watching. This is important for the next step.
• Listen to it many times. Listen to the video once. Then, read the subtitles to get a good grasp of the general content and flow.
• Imitate the narrator sentence by sentence. Play. Listen. Pause. Speak. Record (optional). Copy the speech pattern as best as you can. 

With enough shadowing, you’ll naturally get closer to sounding like a native speaker. Just make sure to pick videos with the same English accent! 

You can find plenty of English videos with quality subtitles on the language learning platform FluentU .

When you’re learning English, and you’re having a conversation with a native speaker, your natural tendency is to take what they say, translate it into your native language in your head, mentally create a response in your native language then translate that response back into English.

As you can imagine, this takes a lot of time. It also makes conversations feel slow or even frustrating (something that causes stress) for the person you’re talking to.

On the other hand, if you practice thinking in English , it takes less time to come up with responses and engage in conversations. You don’t have to take that extra step of translating to and from your native language.

A good way to start thinking in English is to keep a diary for writing down your daily thoughts in English. It doesn’t have to be perfect—you just want to practice getting your thoughts out in English as often as you can.

For example, you can start with a familiar story from your culture. Your translation needs to  convey (communicate) not only the meaning of the words you use, but as much cultural nuance (small differences in meaning) as you can pack into it. You can also choose a short story or fairy tale that mostly uses words you can understand.

Then, you can record your retelling or ask a native English speaker to listen to you and give you their thoughts.

Sometimes, you have words in your language that don’t easily translate into English, and that’s okay! You can try to explain it in another way, like how an untranslatable word would feel to a native English speaker, for example.

If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s an app to help you perfect your English pronunciation, the answer is “Yes.” There’s a lot of them , in fact.

For example, ELSA Speak (available on iOS and Android ) uses speech recognition technology to help you correct the way you say words in English. The lessons are arranged according to topic (e.g., travel, business, etc.). If you’re taking proficiency exams like the IELTS, this app can come in handy, too!

Big universities, theaters and cultural societies often organize events like open debates , spoken word readings and improvised storytelling gatherings. These are places where you can come and mingle with like-minded people and practice speaking English.

Many cities host TED Talks where you can register, participate and share your  innovative (something that’s new or original) ideas. Check the events page of your local university to see if there are any of these opportunities available. It might be a nerve-racking experience, but it would be great for your English!

But what if you don’t feel confident speaking in English? Don’t worry, all language learners deal with this at some point! One of the best ways to overcome the lack of confidence is to get out there and practice.

The best way to do this is to try speaking in English with strangers. The following video has tips on avoiding mistakes when starting a conversation in English.

If public speaking terrifies you, you can opt for language cafes instead. These are cafes that create a friendly and relaxing atmosphere for people who want to practice and exchange languages.

You can usually find language cafes through local universities or the Meetup groups in your local area. If nothing else, they’re a great place to find friends you can share your personal interests with.

Depending on the context, you may have to use either formal or informal English . But how do you know which one to use?

Often, it’s a good idea to listen to how your conversation partner is talking, notice your situation and environment and try to match the type of English being used.

For example, if you’re in the office or at school talking to a boss or professor, it’s safe to use formal English. If you’re talking over coffee with a friend in a cozy cafe, you’re free to throw around all the slang you know.

If you’re only learning “regular” English, don’t worry. Most of the time, standard English works perfectly well as a communication tool, no matter who you’re speaking to. Context is key!

Imagine hearing both of these sentences out of the blue (suddenly). The first thing you’ll probably think of is, “What on earth is this person talking about? What do ‘elucidate’ and ‘dihydrogen monoxide’ mean?”

Even if you know what those words mean, you’ll probably still think that they could’ve just said  “Can you please explain to me what this means?” or “Drink lots of water every day!”

You may be tempted to throw around impressive-sounding words in everyday conversations. But, unless there’s no other way to express what you really mean, you’ll want to use the simplest words possible. Not only will you be better understood, but you’re also less likely to come across as pretentious (someone who acts like they’re better than they really are).

But how do you know which words are the “simplest” for English speakers? Again, that’s where regularly listening to authentic conversations comes in. The more you listen to regular conversations by native speakers, the more you’ll pick up patterns regarding the words they use to make themselves understood.

Communication works both ways. To make sure your listener is engaged (interested in what you have to say) and understands you, ask questions. 

The questions can be about anything you want to know more of. If it’s your first time meeting someone, “What’s your name?” is always a good conversation starter. You can also use other ways to introduce yourself in English .

Ask questions whenever the other person stops and there’s something you want to know more about. For example, if you see your friend with a good-looking car, you can say something like “Wow, that’s a nice car! What make and model is it?” The “compliment + question” formula works like a charm!

Whenever you don’t understand what the other person says, just say it back to the speaker in your own words. This will give them a chance to correct whatever you didn’t understand, or confirm that you heard right.

You can use these phrases before the information:

• I want to make sure I got that right, …
• So let me get this straight, …
• If I’m understanding you correctly, …
• Just to make sure I’ve got it right, you mean…
• Are you saying that… ?
• When you said… Did you mean… ?
• I am not quite sure I am following. Did you say…

If you’re worried that this makes you look “slow” or rude (has no manners), don’t fret! Most people will be perfectly understanding of the fact that English isn’t your first language. They’d rather repeat themselves than have any misunderstandings.

Filler phrases are phrases that act like placeholders in a sentence. They fill in silences so that your speech isn’t interrupted, and give you a little time to think of what to say.

Some examples of filler phrases are:

• To be honest…

You’ll hear these words a lot when you’re talking to native English speakers. To have a better grasp of what they mean and how to use them, you’ll want to—you’ve guessed it—practice them regularly.

But, as with any good thing, don’t overuse them! Too many filler phrases are just as bad as too many pauses. As a general rule of thumb, try not to use more than one filler phrase for every couple of sentences you speak. 

Because you’re still practicing English, you may not always be sure if people really understand what you mean.

In that case, just ask! Most of the time, you can make sure someone understands what you said by asking them to repeat what you said.

For example, the next time you give instructions, directions or information in English, follow it up with one of these phrases:

• I want to make sure you got that. Would you mind repeating it?
• I’m not sure if I said that right. Can you please repeat it?
• Can you please run that by me, so I know you got it?
• I’d like to be sure I’m expressing myself clearly. Could you please tell me what I’ve just said, so I know we’re on the same page?

There’s an English saying that goes like this: “Actions speak louder than words.”

The way you sit, the way you hold your hands and even where you look—all of these can add to or change the meaning of the words you say. The most important thing is to relax.

Not all body language and gestures mean the same thing in different cultures, however. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re speaking in English:

• Avoid certain hand gestures. Showing just the middle finger with the rest of the fingers folded down is considered an offensive gesture. In the U.K., making a V sign with your index and middle finger is also considered rude. (In the U.S., it’s just a sign that means “peace.”)
• Do use your hands when you’re speaking, though. Your hands can show so many emotions. Slamming a  fist (where your fingers are curled into your hands like a boxer’s) into an open hand shows determination. Slamming an open palm or a fist into a table can show anger. Keeping your hands closed and folded on your chest makes you seem cold and uninterested.
• Fingers can speak, too. For example, you can make an “okay” sign by keeping your last three fingers open, and making an “O” with your index finger and thumb.
• Crossed legs can mean different things. If you cross your legs toward the person you’re speaking to, this shows you’re listening to them. If you cross your legs away, it can show you’re not interested or are distracted.

Take note of the situation and mood of the speaker when they make certain gestures. Watching others’ body language in person can help you better understand what they mean.

You can also do this exercise:

• Sit or stand in front of a mirror and speak.
• Pretend you’re having a conversation with your reflection. What are your hands doing? What does your posture say?
• Move around, try different things and see how they change the meaning of the words you’re speaking.

This may seem like a strange tip in a post on how to improve your English speaking skills. After all, what does writing have to do with speaking?

Plenty, in fact. When you know the most natural way to express something in English on paper, that can also translate to how you express yourself in spoken conversations.

Practice writing in English . Take time to collect your thoughts. Try writing a blog in English to hone your writing skills.

Take a look at the steps below and start blogging!

• Choose a platform.   WordPress is a good option for blogging. You can set up an account, then choose a theme and a domain (e.g., imlearningenglish.wordpress.com). Other content management systems like Wix , Ghost and Squarespace are also useful. If you only want to write and aren’t too comfortable with overly technical setups, check out Medium .
• Choose a topic. You can write about whatever you like, of course. But since you want to practice more and more, you should choose a topic that you’re  passionate (interested in or knowledgeable) about.
• Set a schedule and stick to it. Decide how often you’ll be writing—daily, twice a week or once every other week. Be realistic, but committed.
• Write away!  Staring at a blank page can be intimidating (scary). To get started, set a timer for one to two minutes. Think of your topic for that day, then start writing without stopping until the timer goes off. Don’t worry about vocabulary, sentence structure or spelling for now. The point is to express yourself without having to think too much about what you want to say—which is how most conversations go!

Do you feel shy about meeting people in person?

Luckily, you don’t have to leave home to find people to talk to. You can always go to language exchange sites like:

• italki. italki works like a tutoring site where you can find native English speakers to teach you their language. (Read our italki review here .)
• Polyglot Club . A  polyglot is someone who can speak multiple languages. As you can guess from the name, the website consists of a community of people dedicated to learning languages.
• HelloTalk. On HelloTalk, you can connect with English speakers via voice, text or video chat. (Read our HelloTalk review here .)
• Tandem. Similar to HelloTalk, Tandem allows you to contact English speakers from halfway around the world. It has more of a social media feel, though. (Read our Tandem review here .)

Native English speakers love to throw around cultural references in conversation. Cultural references are usually ideas, sayings or jokes related to popular media. For example, the meme (pronounced “meem”) “Brace yourselves, winter is coming” is a reference to a quote by the character Ned Stark from the TV series “Game of Thrones.”

There are so many possible cultural references that it’s hard to keep all of them straight, even if you’re a big pop culture fan! However, you can “get” (understand) most of them by watching lots of English TV shows and movies .

Aside from pop culture, you’ll also want to read about the politics, values and norms of the English-speaking country you’re interested in. That way, you can avoid saying something insensitive or politically incorrect. You can read all about these in newspapers and magazines , where you can also pick up idioms , phrases and other expressions you’ll use over and over again.

If you can afford a plane ticket and accommodations, you can always travel to an English-speaking country. Traveling gives you a chance to see and feel the culture—the food, the drinks, the shops, etc. You can practice chatting with native speakers, testing out your accent and seeing how well people understand you. 

So, off you go! Choose your preferred method to improve your English speaking skills above. Expand your vocabulary, correct your pronunciation and boost your English speaking with the tips that feel right for you. Don’t forget to practice as much as possible!

If you like learning English through movies and online media, you should also check out FluentU. FluentU lets you learn English from popular talk shows, catchy music videos and funny commercials , as you can see here:

If you want to watch it, the FluentU app has probably got it.

The FluentU app and website makes it really easy to watch English videos. There are captions that are interactive. That means you can tap on any word to see an image, definition, and useful examples.

FluentU lets you learn engaging content with world famous celebrities.

For example, when you tap on the word "searching," you see this:

FluentU lets you tap to look up any word.

Learn all the vocabulary in any video with quizzes. Swipe left or right to see more examples for the word you’re learning.

FluentU helps you learn fast with useful questions and multiple examples. Learn more.

The best part? FluentU remembers the vocabulary that you’re learning. It gives you extra practice with difficult words—and reminds you when it’s time to review what you’ve learned. You have a truly personalized experience.

Start using the FluentU website on your computer or tablet or, better yet, download the FluentU app from the iTunes or Google Play store. Click here to take advantage of our current sale! (Expires at the end of this month.)

Enter your e-mail address to get your free PDF!

We hate SPAM and promise to keep your email address safe

• Entertainment
• Environment
• Information Science and Technology
• Social Issues

Home Essay Samples Sociology Communication Skills

How I Have Developed My Communication Skills

*minimum deadline

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below

• Caste System
• Sociological Imagination
• National Honor Society
• Distracted Driving
• Anglo Saxon

Related Essays

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

ESSAY SAUCE

FOR STUDENTS : ALL THE INGREDIENTS OF A GOOD ESSAY

Essay: Communication skills essay

Essay details and download:.

• Subject area(s): Sociology essays
• Reading time: 3 minutes
• Price: Free download
• Published: 17 November 2019*
• File format: Text
• Words: 807 (approx)
• Number of pages: 4 (approx)

Text preview of this essay:

This page of the essay has 807 words. Download the full version above.

Communication skills are all around us, from the day we are born until the rest of our lives. How many times have you seen communication skills required for a job in the classifieds and wonder what it actually means. A communication skill is some type of skill used in communication, From talking, body language to even listening. Many things can effect the way one can convey his or her communication skills to others. All of these skills are very personnel to one another. Everyone has different ways of expressing some kind of communication skill within them. One communication skill is speaking, by far one of the most important skill we posses. To be a good speaker one must be able to convey ideas clearly and briefly. One must also have a clear and pleasant tone to his or her voice. This makes the person you are talking to more attentive, thus, more interested. The speaker must also be aware of his environment and the people he is speaking to. Environment plays a lot with what you say and try to convey to people. If you hear a bird chirping, you might incorporate it to what you where just about to say. This makes the person you’re talking to even more comfortable with what you are trying to convey with your thoughts and ideas. This is how different things can effect one’s communication skill, speaking. A second communication skill is body language, a very personal way of expressing yourself without words. One’s body language can carry a whole conversation without even saying a word. Sign language is an excellent example of this, one can spend there whole life communicating only with there body. Still one can be able to understand exactly how a person is trying to express themselves. Speaking and body language goes hand to hand, without gestures when talking one cannot truly explain certain things to someone. Also there is no visual effect for the person listening. When there is sound as well as some kind of visual movement one is more interested in what someone is trying to say. Through body language one can tell if a person is sad or happy, glad or mad. Body language conveys a lot of expression to are inner feelings and thoughts. Body language can show many things about you and the way you think. It can also show the way a person reacts to what you try to convey to them. If the listener isn’t responding one must try and change the topic without losing the listeners focus. One can only know this threw the listener’s body language. Body language is essential to a good way of showing and conveying ones’ ideas. A third and final major communication skill is listening, one of the most useful communication skills. A good listener is someone who can concentrate and not loose focus on a subject. When someone listens to someone sometimes they might start daydreaming or think of something else and loose focus on a speaker’s subject. Listening is what connects people together. One “cannot speak if no one is listening,” without a listener there would be no need for a speaker. Listening is a skill that takes a long time to develop and to really understand how to listen. One can hear but are they really listening to what is said?. One way to make a listener’s job easier is to have a speaker who is clear and brief. This way the listener won’t drift away and the speaker has stated his or her point. This way the listener has understood what has been said and can make his or her own interpretations. An active listener is a listener who is involved with what the speaker is trying to say. He or She for example may nod, lean forward or make eye contact and Also may take notes. This shows that the speaker has done his job successfully and the listener is responding and being active to what has been said. A listener can be biased and not even listen this does not effect the speaker cause he or she maybe responding to others. These effects show how important listening is to everyone and what an important communication skill it really is. Communication skills will be around us forever and will continue to thrive and develop as time goes by. These effects on communication skills showed that one can interpret different things through one’s communication skills. As one improves their communication skills it shows us how to talk, listen and communicate better with one another. As the world progresses we will see more people taking more time to develop this skill to there fullest. One will understand to control the effect’s communication skills causes and how to handle them.

...(download the rest of the essay above)

About this essay:

If you use part of this page in your own work, you need to provide a citation, as follows:

Essay Sauce, Communication skills essay . Available from:<https://www.essaysauce.com/sociology-essays/communication-skills-essay/> [Accessed 14-04-24].

These Sociology essays have been submitted to us by students in order to help you with your studies.

* This essay may have been previously published on Essay.uk.com at an earlier date.

Essay Categories:

• Accounting essays
• Architecture essays
• Business essays
• Computer science essays
• Criminology essays
• Economics essays
• Education essays
• Engineering essays
• English language essays
• Environmental studies essays
• Essay examples
• Finance essays
• Geography essays
• Health essays
• History essays
• Hospitality and tourism essays
• Human rights essays
• Information technology essays
• International relations
• Leadership essays
• Linguistics essays
• Literature essays
• Management essays
• Marketing essays
• Mathematics essays
• Media essays
• Medicine essays
• Military essays
• Miscellaneous essays
• Music Essays
• Nursing essays
• Philosophy essays
• Photography and arts essays
• Politics essays
• Project management essays
• Psychology essays
• Religious studies and theology essays
• Sample essays
• Science essays
• Social work essays
• Sociology essays
• Sports essays
• Types of essay
• Zoology essays