Interpersonal relations use the currency of speaking and non-verbal cues. Our sole weapon, if you will, while engaging conversationally with another is our speaking & communication abilities. It follows, that those of us that make our livelihood through contact with others, should invest the greatest amount of time and resources towards the improvement of communication.

A powerful and eclectic wielding of speaking skills is a force to be reckoned with. It can instill the air of authority, the obedience of others, and the deconstruction or uplifting of people. Skilled communication allows one to engage in meaningful relationships, to be held in high esteem, and to gain access to special arenas. In the realm of business, effective communication means enhanced probabilities of a monetary payoff. Corporate promotions follow those who can communicate most effectively. Leadership roles also lend themselves to those that can articulate themselves and the organizations they represent.

Although we typically communicate with others directly through speech or various modern media; the fact of the matter, is that we are continually communicating to ourselves as well. We have a continual dialog within our own minds on a continual basis. Furthermore we communicate an image to others in the form that we are perceived. Becoming conscious of these underlying and crucial structures of communication allows us to enhance the message we seek to send out to others. Communication, thus, also determines what we make of ourselves, the decisions we make, and ultimately the level of happiness we experience.

The way we hold ourselves, i.e., our body movements and posture, strongly determines the modes from which we communicate. Our organism is intricately connected, and not only does our body movement dictate the kind of voice quality we emanate, but it also sends non-verbal messages. Understanding and leveraging physiology is altogether a part of being a powerful communicator.

The underlying emotional content of our communication gives a deeper meaning and richer content than words themselves. Our state of mind effects our look, tone, pitch, pace, and volume. These in turn add up to create the emotional ambiance of our interactions.

Of course powerful speech is necessary to tactfully execute your communicative objective. To arm your word with executive power you must strengthen your word annunciation and diction. Specific exercises can be done to deliberately strengthen your articulative muscles.

As a communicator you are always playing a role. Knowing what role you are playing or what role you should play; and playing it effectively leads more easily to intended results. Understanding status and behavioral roles allows you flexibility in communicating with others, and gives you the upper hand in being able to adjust your presentation.

As the process of engagement unfolds, having a strategy in place, and tactfully implementing it greatly improves your odds of success. Although most strategies revolve around simple principles, knowing when and how to choose the most effective one and being able to adapt ultimately comes down to a plan, knowledge, and execution. Its amazing how many people go through sales processes using the strategy of "winging-it"!

And finally, a true professional, like an all-star athlete, consciously practices & trains for the improvement and refinement of every aspect of his/her self. This amounts to becoming brilliant at the basics as well as enhancements on the edges of our comfort zones.

Learn more about this author, Angel Armendariz.
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