{"id":4908,"date":"2023-05-12T09:30:19","date_gmt":"2023-05-12T08:30:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alison.com\/blog\/?p=4908"},"modified":"2023-05-08T14:35:09","modified_gmt":"2023-05-08T13:35:09","slug":"improving-your-communication-skills","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alison.com\/blog\/improving-your-communication-skills","title":{"rendered":"Improving Your Communication Skills"},"content":{"rendered":"

From small to medium-sized teams, remote teams, communication tools and apps, multicultural organisations, and time zone differences, the workplace is continuously evolving. One essential aspect that weaves through the evolution and impacts an individual\u2019s, team\u2019s, and organisation\u2019s success is communication. No matter who you are, where you are based, what you do, or even dream of doing, improving your communication skills is a vital skill that everyone needs to develop. Let\u2019s find out why so much value is placed on communication and what practical steps you can take to refine your skills.<\/span><\/p>\n

What is communication?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Communication<\/span><\/a> is described as the relaying and receiving of information between the sender and receiver using a variety of verbal and non-verbal means. Communication is more than talking and listening. Non-verbal elements like body language, tone, and facial expressions, to name a few, feed into the communication cycle.<\/span><\/p>\n

Types of communication<\/b><\/h2>\n

Communication is categorised into <\/span>four main groups<\/span><\/a>. We look at each of these below.<\/span><\/p>\n

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  1. <\/b> Written communication<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Written communication is a traditional element of communication. From writing and posting letters to friends when we were younger, to now texting, sending emails or messages in communication tools, to more formal written communication like reports, documents, and white papers.<\/span><\/p>\n

    With written communication, you need to ensure that your message is relayed concisely, clearly, accurately and in the correct tone for the receiver and platform used.<\/span><\/p>\n

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    1. <\/b> Verbal communication<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      Verbal communication can be formal, from giving presentations to delivering reports, or informal communication like chatting at the water cooler or talking with friends and family about weekend plans. This type of communication also includes active listening to ensure you\u2019re not just hearing the words being spoken but are paying attention to what is being said (and not).<\/span><\/p>\n

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      1. <\/b> Non-verbal communication<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        An aspect of communication that often gets little attention but is equally important is <\/span>non-verbal communication<\/span><\/a>. This type of communication is through body language and includes your posture, eye contact, facial expressions, and demeanour. Someone speaking with a scowl on their face and arms folded saying they \u201care fine\u201d sends a confusing message to the receiver. Non-verbal communication needs to be in sync with verbal communication to ensure the message is conveyed clearly.<\/span><\/p>\n

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        1. <\/b> Visual communication<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          Visual communication is a type of communication that uses graphics, charts, images, and other styles of non-written means to send a message. For example, almost everyone can recognise roadmaps, mind maps, process diagrams, and graphs. Like all types of communication, visual communication needs to be clear to make sure your message is well communicated.<\/span><\/p>\n

          The good news is that you can hone your <\/span>communication skills<\/span><\/a> and become a well-rounded communicator. Here are a few practical tips on how to develop this trait.<\/span><\/p>\n

          Tips to improve your communication skills<\/b><\/h2>\n
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          1. <\/b> Practice active listening<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

            A popular author, Stephen R. Covey, states that \u201cMost people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.\u201d We hear the sounds and voices or even scan the contents of an email for keywords and want to respond or say our piece as soon as there\u2019s a break in the conversation, but don\u2019t fully engage in what is being said or the full written message. But <\/span>listening is crucial in communication<\/span><\/a> so that the message isn\u2019t misconstrued, or we respond to something that isn\u2019t important.<\/span><\/p>\n