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You can become a better communication today!

Anthony Robbins once observed: "The way we communicate with others and with ourselves ultimately determines the quality of our lives." Good communication skills is important, not only in our interpersonal relationships but also in the workplace. Fortunately, communication skills can be learnt, and can be improved upon over a period of time.

Apply the following five simple steps of effective communication to be on your way to enhanced interpersonal relationships as well as to outstanding workplace success.

Listen

It is ironic that listening is a core component of good communication. Listening focuses your attention on the other person, allowing you to be audience-centric your interactions. Listening also allows the other person to get his or her point across and thus may cause him or her to reciprocate your kind attention and listen to what you have to say. Listening has also the added bonus of supplying the time needed to perform the next step well.

Speak Slowly and Clearly

The next step to better communication is to speak clearly at a suitable pace. Have you ever spoken to someone who rambled on and on in an incomprehensible manner? You can avoid that by framing your thoughts in a clear and concise manner. When you do speak, do not rush; speak slowly, in a clear and logical tone. With the diverse nationalities in today's globalised workplace, speaking clearly becomes even more important in the communication of thoughts and ideas in the workplace.

If you tend to get nervous when speaking, try this tip. Imagine the person whom you are speaking with to be a small child, and that you are trying to explain something simple to him. This will help to reduce any nervous tension out from your voice, but try avoid sounding condescending though.

Be Considerate

Always be mindful of the other person's feelings. Speak in terms of the other person's interests. Don't ramble on and on about something that the other person is not interested in. Smile, and maintain good eye contact.

Give Complements

Everybody wants to be appreciated, and so the person who is able to give this recognition will be extremely valued. A complement, given sincerely, is a simple and effective way to create bonds with any individual you desire. It costs nothing to give, and is of infinite value to the person receiving it. John Maxwell, leadership expert has his 30 second rule. Give the other person a complement within 30 seconds of meeting him or her.

Have Confidence

Confidence helps you to communicate in many ways. People enjoy communicating with other people who appear to be confident. Maintain eye contact, smile. Initiate contact if the other person is shy. Be fun, be yourself.

Be mindful of these five keys to effective communication the next time you speak. In time, with practice, you will definitely before a more effective and successful communicator.

Learn more about this author, Wenbin Nah.
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