Written and oral communications are a primary part of conducting business. Today's businesses engage in all sorts of ways to send messages including e-mail, web conferences, telephones, face to face meetings, phone conferences, messaging and a host of other ways to connect.

As a business representative, the way you communicate reflects upon both yourself and the company. By developing effecting business communication practices you will be able to meet two primary objectives. You'll ensure your message is delivered accurately and successfully and you'll represent your company positively.

Here are a few ways you can effectively develop strong business communication skills and practices:

*Be Positive

A positive approach typically yields far better results than a negative one. People who carry a positive attitude are much more approachable and someone others want to communicate with. Attitude can make all the difference in the world when having business communications.

*Avoid Accusations

Never take on an accusatory tone because this will only put a colleague, partner or customer on the defense and could harm the business relationship.

If something isn't right or doesn't add up, ask questions in a polite manner without accusatory tones. People do make mistakes and by proactively approaching a situation you are going to have a much better shot at resolution without hindering the relationship.

*Keep the Focus on your Audience

By audience this could mean either a large group, or a one-on-one communication. Whichever the case, make sure you put a "you" emphasis on your words, do not focus on "I" as you communicate.

*Use Layman's Terms

When communicating in business it's important to write or speak in a format everyone can understand. If you speak in a highly technical form, or worse, use acronyms or other internal language that means nothing to your intended recipient, the message will fail to be understood.

It's best to avoid using industry jargon unless you are 100% positive you are speaking with someone who understands the lingo.

*Be Concise and On-topic

Provide enough detail so your message is thoroughly understood, but do not be overly long-winded because you'll lose your reader/listener. Instead, be clear, concise and don't waste words. Stay on-topic and try not to digress in a completely different direction as you're communicating.

While it's understandable discussions often bring on innovative new ideas to grow or improve business, be sure the

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about How to develop effective business communication practices?
We want to hear your view. Write now!