What do you do if your communication skills are not keeping up with the latest trends and technologies?

1 Assess Gaps

Begin by conducting a thorough self-assessment to pinpoint exactly where your communication skills are lacking. This might involve reflecting on feedback from colleagues, analyzing your comfort level with various communication technologies, or comparing your abilities to industry standards. Once you've identified specific areas for improvement, you can create a targeted plan to develop those skills. Remember, acknowledging the need for growth is the first step towards becoming a more effective communicator.

2 Set Goals

After identifying your communication shortfalls, set clear and achievable goals for improvement. These should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). For example, if you're not up-to-date with the latest social media platforms, a goal might be to learn and actively use one new platform within the next month. Setting goals provides direction and motivation, and it helps track your progress over time.

3 Learn Continuously

The world of communication is ever-changing, and continuous learning is the only way to stay ahead. This could mean taking online courses, attending workshops, or simply dedicating time each day to read about the latest communication trends and technologies. By committing to lifelong learning, you'll not only keep your skills fresh but also demonstrate your adaptability and commitment to professional development.

4 Practice Regularly

Like any skill, communication abilities improve with practice. Engage regularly with new communication tools and platforms to become more proficient. You might start a blog to enhance your writing, join online forums to sharpen your persuasive communication, or use video conferencing software to become more comfortable with virtual presentations. The more you practice, the more confident and effective you'll become in using these tools.

5 Seek Feedback

Gathering feedback is a powerful way to improve your communication skills. Reach out to trusted peers, mentors, or supervisors to get their honest opinions on your progress. They can provide insights into areas you might have overlooked and offer suggestions for further improvement. Constructive criticism can be invaluable, so embrace it and use it as a stepping stone to enhance your communication prowess.

6 Network Actively

Lastly, actively expand your professional network to expose yourself to diverse communication styles and practices. Networking can provide opportunities to observe and learn from proficient communicators. Attend industry events, join professional associations, or participate in online communities related to strategic communications. The connections you make can also serve as resources for advice and support as you work on improving your communication skills.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?