A coffee break podcast to help you get your message across

Communicating with Ros Atkins is an excellent short-series podcast, with episodes lasting just 15 minutes (hallelujah!)

Have a listen of course, but here are the top five points I took from his eight interviews with people from diverse fields, with favourite being Michael Johnson (although I was pleasantly surprised by Rob Brydon).

As someone who spends a lot of time coaching and training on communication skills, this is another resource I’ll be recommending to delegates.

Slow down and let your words breathe

Pause as you communicate. Speaking or writing slowly gives you and your audience a moment to process, adding weight to your words.

You are over-familiar with what you want to say. Your audience is the opposite.

Be clear, direct, and concise

Choose one central message. Trying to say everything at once only muddles the point. A message for everyone ends up reaching no one.

Get to the heart of your message quickly. Don’t over-explain; once you've made your point, stop. Less really is more. Leave an impression, not an encyclopaedia.

A clear structure helps people follow your thoughts. Include only what’s essential and be ruthless about cutting unnecessary details. Tell the time, not how the watch was made.

Make it relevant

Provide context and explain why your message matters. People need a reason to care, so clarify the value your communication brings. Think about what thought you want to inspire in your audience.

Every communication should have a goal, however simple. Give your audience the reason and motivation to act and share.

Know your audience and be authentic

Adapt your message to those you’re speaking to, using language they can relate to. Speak or write as you naturally would; authenticity is accessible. Write for the ear more than the eye. Write to communicate not to impress.

Seek and embrace feedback

Audience reactions — good or bad — are learning tools. Use them to improve without letting criticism deter you. Ask for the tough comments and use self-reflection to keep growing, one skill at a time. Becoming an excellent communicator is a never-ending journey, not a destination.