By Dream Internhsip
(Vol3.No25.120125)
In whatever industry you choose to pursue, there are certain skills sets that will carry over to each and every one. One of those sets, in particular, is developed communication skills.
Communicating is more than just talking to people. It is displayed in three different ways; verbal (spoken), non-verbal (written) and body language. Although the latter is statistically less important than the first two, all three legs of this communication tripod affect how your message is portrayed.
When you communicate verbally with people, remember these three points and you will wow your audience. First, know your audience. This will prove monumental in pre-determining your communication game plan. Are they on your same academic level? Are they below it? Far past it? You don’t want to talk over someone’s head (with industry specific jargon or terms), but you also do not want to talk down to someone, or even worse, talk about subjects that you yourself are unsure of. Second, know what you are seeking, what you are communicating. Is it to inform your audience? Possibly persuade them? Or is it a call to action (trying to get them to do something for you)? Whichever it is, make sure you are aware before you begin, and that way your tone and word selection will back it up. And lastly, be conscious of what actually comes out of your mouth. Verbal communication not only includes the words you use to create speech, but the sounds you use to make words, and the language or dialect you use when speaking.
Non-verbal communication is just as important as verbal, if not more. These skills can make or break a possible opportunity for you. For example, what do potential employers see first? A speech you gave in your University classroom about the perils of student parking? Or your resume? Resume, right. This piece of paper serves as a non-verbal representation of you, and is the very first thing most employers will gauge you on. If it is ridden with grammatical errors, wrong word tenses, and the format is all over the place, chances are you are not going to get that interview, despite the 4.0 GPA. So read, proof, and re-proof that resume again before sending it out. With the competition you will surely be facing, don’t pull yourself out of the race before it even begins.
Thirdly, is the art of body language. This leg of the communication tripod is not stressed as much as the other two, but it is a factor of how your message is portrayed. One key factor is to make sure your body language and verbal communication are presenting a consistent message. If you are speaking with a boss about how much you appreciate the time-off you are granted, but you are looking through your calendar in front of you and constantly glancing at your watch, your message will not be received the way you intended. So be aware of how others perceive your actions, and take those two solid minutes to look at the person to whom you are speaking, and make your claims reflect your sincerity.
Positively employing these three communications techniques won’t always guarantee the outcome you are looking for, but it sure won’t hurt. So take the time to do the research, to practice and proof. It will not only enhance your image, but it will boost your confidence as well.
