“To effectively communicate, we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world and use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others”

• Anthony Robbins.  

I have learned that effective communication is essential for success.  As a matter of fact, your ability to communicate effectively will be your greatest weakness or biggest loss. If you’re a good and effective communicator, you’re better able to persuade people, and influence others. You can inspire, motivate, and encourage. You can also make interesting conversation and network easier, speaking with self-confidence and credibility. The better your communication skills, the greater the leadership success you can achieve. The importance of communication skills cannot be understated, it is more than just a “nice to have” skill.

So how do you ensure that you are communicating effectively?  

1. Be concise. Make it clear what you’re wishing to convey from the outset.
2. Organise & clarify ideas in your mind
3. Be articulate & avoid mumbling
4. Listen actively.  Communication is a two-way street. Remember that while you are talking, you are not learning. In listening, you will be able to gauge how much of your message is getting through to your listeners and whether or not it is being received correctly. It can be helpful to ask listeners to rephrase some of what you have said in their own words to clarify understanding
5. Maintain a positive body language & tone. Nonverbal communication speaks the loudest. The ability to understand and use nonverbal communication, or body language, is a powerful tool that can help you connect with others, express what you really mean, and build better relationships.

Effective communication is essential to your leadership success. Whilst the ability to communicate effectively may not come easily, it is a skill that one can develop with practice. In the words of John Powell, “Communication works for those who work at it”

How hard are you working?