The best way to get ahead in business is to communicate effectively.
No matter who you are speaking with, clear conversation will nearly, if not always, prove advantageous in the end. Businesses that would prefer to get things done in a simpler and more effective manner – something that will likely lead to more sales – should promote clear communication within their ranks. Whether it be peer-to-peer, a conversation with a boss, or a sales pitch to the consumer, keeping the message concise, simple and controlled will prove beneficial to any store. This is especially important for speaking with customers. A clear conversation with a potential buyer might as well be a financial plan in its own right as it is more likely to produce revenue than convoluted product descriptions. Below are a few tips on proper communication:
1. Emotional messages should be related in person
Any kind of communication based around emotional content should take place in person, or via phone in a worst case scenario, according to Inc. Emotion can have good connotations as well as bad, either way though the message should be relayed personally. For example, great news, such as passing a sales benchmark, delivered in person will feel celebratory and infectious. The same news forwarded by email seems more like a hindsight acknowledgement than an in-the-moment celebration.
The same goes for bad news or criticism, the publication explained. If relayed in person, a negative message will likely be better received, and possibly prove more helpful.
When communicating these in-person messages it will be helpful to be mindful of your body language as well, CallRail noted. Body language can have a notable effect on the way people react to information. Pay close attention to your facial expressions, hand gestures and body language as you relate messages to others. Positioning and movements should be in line with what you are trying to communicate.
2. Talk some, but listen more
Though this typically applies to in-person conversations, it should also work for any sort of communication whether it be telephone, social media or email, Inc explained. The publication pointed out that "it is better to receive than to give." Attempting to take command of a conversation isn't good because in the end there's nothing to learn from a back-and-forth in which the only relevant element is the forth. Communication should always be about the other person.
In addition, being a good listener will improve overall verbal interaction skills, according to CallRail. It displays legitimate care for what the other person in the conversation is saying and ensures understanding. Communicating this way assures a good working relationship is built and a degree of trust is established.
3. Speak simply, clearly and confidently
Business today often suffers from too much information, Inc explained. This can lead to disorientation and anxiety. This means that messages should be delivered in simple, bite-sized bits that people can easily understand and utilize.
Don't use long or complex sentences. Instead say everything in direct language that clearly portrays your point. In addition, it is important to come off with an air of confidence, as this will develop both trust and respect among the audience, CallRail wrote. A number of things can factor into the degree of poise on display. These include knowledge of the subject matter, choice of words, body movements, vocal tones and eye contact. Vocal tones should vary in order to keep the audience captivated. Changes in emphasis and pitch can communicate importance and express emotion.
Make sure to keep these tips in mind when communicating with anyone within a business setting. These are skills that will always be valuable, no matter what the situation is. They will assure that peers have an understanding, bosses have respect for their employees and sales get made.