Communication

So we are seeing how incredibly important effective communication is now more than ever.

Those of us who claim we are good communicators are suddenly without the most important element of communication at our disposal; body language. At least we can see peoples faces via our laptop portal but is this enough?

In the past, when I have given talks about effective communication (aka presentation skills, pitching, interviewing for a job) I have always emphasised the importance of listening. In the absence of being able to see and assess body language, listening is even more important now than ever.

Think about how government officials are attempting to communicate the importance of certain behaviour as the pandemic challenges our ‘normal’ behaviour. Almost without exception, the press challenge the message as confusing at best and not being totally honest at worst.

This is a communication nightmare.

So how do you avoid it?

Rehearse, never shoot from the hip, be sure of your facts if you argument relies on them, listen. It’s ok to say I don’t know (don’t be arrogant, no one has all the answers), be authentic and think about your audience. What are they looking for from you?

Want to know more about effective communication that gets you, your edge and your message across. Get in touch by email: [email protected]