We all want to get our point across to others – there is no doubt about it. But, sometimes it’s more difficult than others to get people to understand what you’re trying to say. When you start to get frustrated, it’s great to have some solutions in your back pocket to help drive your communication strategy, don’t you agree? Whether you’re looking to make yourself clear in a business setting, in your relationships or simply in general, here’s a look at five ways to get your point across effectively.
Top Communication Tips: 5 Ways to Get Your Point Across Effectively
#1. First and foremost, be a good listener. Ironically, listening skills are the most important piece of the puzzle when it comes to learning how to drive successful communication solutions. When you’re a good listener, you’re respected – in return by those who listen to you. These open lines of communication are a give and take, often making it so easy for people to understand and digest whatever point you’re trying to make.
#2. Be clear and concise. Whenever you’re trying to make a point, especially if it’s a complicated topic or something with a lot of emotion behind it, I’ve found it helps to have your main points drafted. Even when you’re having a tough relationship conversation, sometimes it really helps to write down what you’d like to get across. Try to narrow it down to two to three main points as keeping it simple is really the name of the game. If you’re trying to explain a complicated process or theory, in a business setting, for example – breaking it down in this same way always helps.
#3. Don’t be afraid to personalize your message. When you speak from the heart and to the heart, people listen. They want to hear about the things that are meaningful to you and they want to know that you’re sincere in your messaging. Share a personal story or real life example that relates to the topic – this always helps people understand how this can apply to their own lives. When you’re able to see yourself in a related scenario, you listen – and others will too.
#4. Be aware of your body language. This is a really important factor when it comes to getting your point across – the way you stand, sit, your facial expressions etc. are all key indicators of what you’re thinking and how you feel about the topic at hand. If you’re having a tough conversation, it’s important to think about presenting yourself as strong, calm and collected – and you’re posture can have everything to do with that. Stand tall, put a smile on your face and speak with a warm and welcoming tone – all of that combined and people will be tuned in and ready to listen and understand what you have to say.
#5. Be your real and true self. Authenticity means everything when it comes to helping people understand what you’re trying to say – so, never forget how important that is. When you’re true to yourself, your beliefs, your feelings – you have nothing to lose and the people around you will feel that too.
Do you have challenges communicating or tricks to making it easier?
