How do you leverage technology and online platforms to facilitate oral communication?

2 Choose the right platform

Another important factor to consider is the platform or medium you use to communicate orally. Depending on the purpose, scope, and duration of your communication, you may choose different platforms such as phone calls, video calls, webinars, podcasts, or live streams. Each platform has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you need to weigh them carefully and prepare accordingly. For example, if you are using a video call, you need to ensure that your audio and video quality are good, that you have a stable internet connection, and that you minimize distractions and background noise. If you are using a webinar, you need to plan your content, slides, and interactions well, and test your software and equipment beforehand.

3 Use clear and concise language

One of the key elements of effective oral communication is to use clear and concise language. This means that you avoid jargon, slang, filler words, and long or complex sentences. Instead, you use simple, direct, and precise words that convey your meaning and intention. You also structure your communication in a logical and coherent way, using transitions, signposts, and summaries to help your audience follow your points. Clear and concise language helps you to avoid confusion, misunderstanding, and boredom, and to deliver your message with impact and clarity.

4 Engage your audience

Effective oral communication is not a one-way street. It is a dynamic and interactive process that involves your audience. Therefore, you need to engage your audience and make them feel involved and interested in your communication. There are many ways to do this, such as asking questions, soliciting feedback, using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes, using gestures and facial expressions, or using visual aids or multimedia. Engaging your audience helps you to build rapport, trust, and credibility, and to stimulate their curiosity and attention.

5 Listen actively

Another essential skill for effective oral communication is active listening. Active listening means that you pay attention to what your audience is saying, how they are saying it, and what they are not saying. You also show that you are listening by using verbal and non-verbal cues, such as nodding, smiling, paraphrasing, or asking clarifying questions. Active listening helps you to understand your audience's perspectives, needs, and concerns, and to respond appropriately and empathetically. It also helps you to avoid miscommunication, conflict, and errors.

6 Seek feedback and improvement

The final tip for effective oral communication is to seek feedback and improvement. Feedback is valuable information that helps you to evaluate your performance and identify your strengths and weaknesses. You can seek feedback from your audience, peers, mentors, or coaches, or from yourself by recording and reviewing your communication. Feedback helps you to learn from your mistakes, improve your skills, and enhance your confidence. It also shows that you are open-minded, humble, and willing to grow as a leader.