There is so much that can be said about improving one’s communication skills that we could be reading (or writing) forever. Sometimes you simply want a list of reminders. This is such a list. It’s taken from my Confident and Clear Communication program, which goes into greater depth on each topic with exercises and questions to help you explore your unique communication patterns and tips to improve upon the aspects of your communication you wish to elevate.
1. Eliminate negative self-talk.
Negative self-talk comes in many forms, including putting yourself down, diminishing your accomplishments, not accepting compliments, or beginning sentences with, “I’m just a…”. It is not productive, it is disempowering, and it reinforces beliefs you don’t want to hold about yourself.
2. Pay attention to your posture.
Changing your posture can instantly change how you feel and how you are perceived by others.
3. Replace criticism with compassion.
Criticism of others begins with a negative judgment you are making about them. Love and judgement can’t exist in the same moment. If you want loving relationships in your life, whether at home or work, transform critical comments into more productive communication.
4. Be assertive, not aggressive or passive: identify the differences.
Assertive communication is respectful, diplomatic, empowered and effective.
5. Read body language more closely.
Pay close attention to your body language and that of others, to achieve the most effective communication. Our true feelings and thoughts are conveyed through eye contact, the placement and movement of the feet, hands, hips, legs, and more.
6. Polish your writing skills.
Sometimes your written words create the first impression someone will have of you, and they could open doors for you, or close them forever.
7. Speak with power.
Make the choice to speak with power and confidence, paying attention to your vocal tone, fluidity and energy level.
8. Replace lazy listening with committing to the moment.
Becoming a great listener will improve relationships and can lead you to great success.
9. Transform arguments and address delicate topics sensitively.
Discover what’s beneath the argument so you can transform it into a productive conversation, and broach delicate situations with forethought and sensitivity.
10. Communicate to inspire, empower and motivate people.
Approach interactions thinking about what you can leave people with and how you can inspire, empower and motivate them.
If you would like to improve your communication skills or those of your team or clients, arrange a complimentary consultation with Lisa Elia.
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This post was written by Lisa Elia, a media trainer, presentation trainer, pitch coach, communication expert, and speaker. She trains clients around the world for media interviews, speeches, internal and external presentations, panels, investor presentations, and promotional videos, and provides executive and team communication coaching.
With more than 25 years of experience, Lisa has prepared clients for interviews with TODAY, GMA, The Wall Street Journal, CNN, ESPN, and hundreds of other outlets. Lisa has shared her expertise with national media outlets that include Inc., Entertainment Tonight, E!, and many others. Clients include entrepreneurs, Fortune 500 companies, and everything in between as well as athletes, celebrities, and other public figures.
To arrange a complimentary consultation with Lisa, click here.
Here are links to a few other articles you might enjoy:
Body Language in Interviews and Meetings – Nonverbal Communication
https://expertmediatraining.com/body-language-in-interviews-and-meetings/
How To Prepare for Presentations – 6 Tips for Effective Presentations
https://expertmediatraining.com/how-to-prepare-for-presentations/
Prepare for Media Interviews BEFORE You Book One
https://expertmediatraining.com/prepare-for-tv-interviews-media-trainer-tips/
Frequently Asked Questions about Media Training
https://expertmediatraining.com/faqs-about-media-training/
