How to Improve Communication Skills

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Think before you speak. Plan your presentations and other addresses to groups whenever possible, especially in business. Even if you don't know everything you want to say, you should have a general idea. In more private conversations, take the time to be clear about the points you want to make before talking. Always be honest in your communication.

Step2

Be an active listener. Listening is often more important than speaking. To improve your communication skills, pay attention to what others are saying without getting distracted.

Step3

Make good eye contact. Shifty eyes make you seem less than trustworthy in business and personal life. If you are looking everywhere but in the eyes of your audience, it will arouse suspicion. This doesn't mean you should initiate a staring contest. Just make sure to put your audience at ease by holding the gaze at times.

Step4

Take it slow. Don't slur your words together or mumble. Enunciate. If you speak too fast, then you'll lose your audience. Use words only if you are sure of their meaning. Make yourself easily understood.

Step5

Use appropriate volume and tone. Of course, you should speak louder when addressing a group than you would in private conversations. Reflect emotion in your voice. A monotone approach is never appropriate in any setting.

Step6

Practice; it's the best way to improve your communication skills. The more you do it, the easier it will get.

(taken from "How to Improve Communication Skills" by eHow)