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“Communication leads to community, that is, to understanding, intimacy, and mutual valuing.” - Rollo May
Since birth we have been developing and crafting our words in order to communicate with clarity. Why? We continue to improve our communication skills to perfect our ability to exchange information with the people that enter our lives. Focus in this area will help with prosperity in all areas of your life.
My wife and I attended a marriage seminar this weekend, which was a great blessing to the both of us. It is no secret about how important communication is to a successful marriage. But communication is just as important with your business dealings.
How important is communication in your personal and professional dealings?
Effective communication is a two-way street. It’s not just what we say. Clarity of your vision and dreams hinges on your ability to effectively communicate. Let’s discuss 4 ways to effectively communicate.
1. Check your attitude.
We have heard the importance of first impressions. One of the primary things you will remember about many of your conversations is a person’s attitude.
Your attitude determines how people will feel after you conversation. Leadership expert John Maxwell stated, “People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude.” When you observe those who are successful, you will discover the importance of having the right attitude. I discuss details in my Are You B.A.D.? (Bound and Determined) - The Art of Making Successful Things Happen eBook and give you a plan to develop the right attitude in The Power of I.F. (Intentional Focus) - 8 Essentials Words for Living Your Best Life eBook.
2. Listen Carefully.
A critical component to effective communicating is listening. Along with having the right attitude, you also have to listen.
American novelist, short story writer, and journalist Ernest Hemingway said, “I like to listen. I have learned a great deal from listening carefully. Most people never listen.”
Have you ever talked to someone and could not remember any of the conversation?
This usually happens when we are not listening or when we distracted. Diogenes the Greek Philosopher stated, “We have two ears and one tongue so that we would listen more and talk less.” Do your best to avoid being distracted and listen intently when you are communicating. Don’t redirect the conversation, but stay focused on the person speaking and what they are talking about.
3. Pay Attention to the Nonverbal.
Your attitude is important, but your body language is just as important. Many times our attitude determines our body language.
English dancer, writer, and broadcaster Deborah Bull said, “Body language is very powerful tool. We had body language before we had speech, and apparently, 80% of what you understand in a conversation is read through the body, not the words.”
How is your body language when you communicate?
Not only pay attention to your body language, but also focus on the nonverbal signs of the other person.
4. Assert Yourself.
You have to be assertive as a communicator. Being assertive doesn’t mean that you are aggressive or demanding. Assertive communicators clearly express their thoughts, feelings, and needs openly and honestly while representing themselves well but also respecting others.
Are you assertive when you communicate?
Effective communication is the glue that stabilizes your leadership. If you fail to communicate effectively, you may just fail in bringing success to your personal and professional life.
I challenge you to effectively communicate with everyone in your life and watch the impact.
Are you currently communicating effectively? What can you improve with your communication? Please leave a comment below, send me a tweet on Twitter, or leave a comment on Facebook.
