101 Ways to Improve Your Communication Skills

ObjectivesCommunicationTechniquesListeningSpeaking and ListeningSpeaking and WritingGeneral Tips

CommunicationSpeakingKnow what you want to sayControl FearStop Talking and ListenThink before you talkBelieve in your messageRepeat Major PointsFind Out what your Listener wants

CommunicationTechniquesDefine AcronymsReduce JargonLevel ObjectionsUse HumorAnecdotes and StoriesAsk for feedbackIncrease your vocabulary

CommunicationTechniques -continuedEliminate Audible PausesEnunciate ClearlyPractice Pronouncing Words ProperlyExercise Tongue, Jaws and LipsMake Eye ContactGesture

CommunicationTechniques -continuedPauseSpeak more slowlySpeak fasterVary Your VolumeWatch your toneRecord your voice

CommunicationListeningPrepare to ListenFocus on the SpeakerScreen Out DistractionsConcentrate on the Message Listen to Tapes while you commute

CommunicationSpeaking and ListeningAsk Questions Avoid Daydreaming Accept Accents Use mind mappingInterview ComplaintsTelephone

Speaking and WritingKey PointsWrite a Purpose StatementOutlineTransfer Negative Emotions to PaperGet to the PointExplain Abstract wordsUse Absolutes and Generalities Sparingly

Speaking and WritingKey Points - ContinuedAsk for what you wantUse active verbsUse gender neutral languageCite Source of Statistical DataIllustrate with personal examplesExpress EmotionKeep it simple (KISS) Method

Speaking and WritingKey Points - ContinuedPaint verbal PicturesBe ConciseSupport Statements with DetailsWatch SemanticsQuote AuthoritiesConsult ExpertsSuppress emotion

Speaking and WritingWritingKeep a JournalTake notesWrite personal Notes Write Effective business lettersUse Short SentencesCommunicate online

General TipsReadingReadKeep up with Current EventsRead Something InspirationalUse the Internet

General TipsNon VerbalPresenceGive Nonverbal CuesCheck Your Posture Dress AppropriatelySmileTouchShake Hands Properly

General TipsAttitude Intend to ImproveVisualizeBe flexibleBe LikableCommit to Being TruthfulEmpathizeDont take yourself too seriously

General TipsAttitude continuedEliminate Negative FeelingsBe receptive to New IdeasTake ResponsibilityRespect the Other Persons Point of ViewRecognize the Impact of Stress on CommunicationBe Real

General TipsAttitude continuedCheck Your attitude

General TipsBehavioralLaughUse Good MannersRecognize Manipulative BehaviorRecognize Condescending MannersAvoid Words that HurtChange Abrasive BehaviorHandle Disagreements with Tact

General TipsMiscellaneousOrganize Productive MeetingsConsider Experience LevelUnderstand the Importance of TimingPresent a Good Personal Image

Questions