Strong communication skills are essential for effective leadership and dynamic organisations. There are steps you can take to elevate your skills in this area. Check out our 6 tips below.
Effective communication often begins with preparation. If possible, structure your thoughts and objectives in advance. A good conversation will have a beginning, middle and end. When do you want to say something important? What should come before and after it? What messages, and in what order do you need to get across? Practice your delivery – rehearsing allows you to anticipate potential questions or reactions and communicate with confidence. By preparing well, you will be better able to focus on the exchange, rather than worrying about the basics of what you want to say.
Maintaining an open and relaxed posture while speaking reinforces the authenticity of your words and helps you connect with your audience. Releasing tension through simple exercises, like neck stretches or spinal roll-downs, can improve your posture and physical presence. While the evidence on Power Poses have been questioned, good posture is known to make a difference to boosting confidence, so if they work for you, go for it!
Your voice can be a powerful tool in communication. Controlled breathing can help steady your tone and convey confidence. Try voice exercises, such as humming or practicing breath control to enhance your vocal presence and make your delivery more engaging. By aligning your voice with your message, you can ensure your communication is both compelling and memorable.
Show you are listening by using verbal affirmations like “uh-huh” or “I see,” and accompanying them with non-verbal cues such as nodding or smiling. Reflect back and summarise what you’ve heard to check your understanding and get clarity. Do this at appropriate moments during the conversation as well as in summation. E.g. “Can I just check my understanding of what you’ve said?” or “Can I summarise the points you’ve just made”. This offers an opportunity for them to clarify or add to points after you have summarised. Finally, follow up with thoughtful questions that build on their contributions, encouraging deeper discussion and demonstrating genuine interest
Authenticity is key to impactful communication. Speak from the heart, allowing yourself to be transparent and occasionally vulnerable, which helps foster trust and connection. Inject some appropriate humour to create a lighter, more engaging atmosphere. Show empathy by acknowledging the perspectives and emotions of others, ensuring everyone feels seen and valued. This human approach can transform interactions into meaningful exchanges.
Keep your attention focused on the other person, showing interest in their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Asking open-ended questions keeps the conversation moving and could help uncover valuable insights and demonstrates respect for their contributions. Staying curious helps you avoid getting caught up in your own agenda.
