Communication, along with engagement, is one of the most important aspects of business and we do it everyday. However, exactly how effective is our communication? It always comes out in staff surveys as an area to improve. This would suggest that we are not as good at communicating as we might think, after all, how difficult is it to communicate? Well, communication is not just “Verbal” but also “Non-verbal”, in fact we use non-verbal communication 70% of the time. The crucial thing to remember is to know your audience and use language that will connect and provide clarity of the message.

Communication . . . Is communicating information in a clear and concise way to suit the audience and achieve the right result.

Communicates Clearly

* Presents information in a way that is easy to understand.

* Effectively uses all communication tools available (eg phone, email, face-to-face).

* Is willing to listen to ideas, questions and concerns.

* Cascades relevant information and particularly health & safety issues.

* Keeps management informed of all relevant issues.

Tailors Communication

* Understands what is relevant and/or interesting to others.

* Adapts content, style and language to the audience.

* Produces structured logical emails, reports and presentations.

* Uses relevant facts and benefits to construct sound, persuasive arguments.

* Encourages 2-way discussion in all appropriate communication.

* Seeks feedback from team to ensure messages have been delivered and understood.

Influences Others

* Sells own ideas by linking them to other people’s values, goals or ideas.

* Builds support and buy-in for ideas behind the scenes.

* Sells the benefits behind decisions and changes.

* Is aware of, and adapts non-verbal communication styles effectively.

* Willingly and confidently communicates issues and ideas to gain senior management support.

* Makes use of high impact communication or media to capture attention.

Builds an Influencing Strategy

* Communicates credibly in all directions within and beyond.

* Uses third parties and experts to strengthen their case.

* Contacts and engages with key stakeholders or influencers to enlist their support for ideas and proposals.

* Looks ahead to identify individuals who may be important to business success and takes action to forge relationships with them.

* Is a role model in communication skills.

You are now on your way to improving how you communicate with your people and others in business and people will start to listen. This brings me nicely onto another hugely important aspect of communication – the ability to listen, which is a positive act. How often have you switched off or your mind is full of questions or judgements before you have started to listen? Try to clear your mind and really listen to better understand the perspective of the communicator, feeling the message. Respect the audience, be clear, concise, give direction, constructive feedback, know your subject, act with humility. We communicate every minute of everyday, give it some serious thought, bounce it off someone you value and trust. Great communication provides great results – people might forget what you said but not how you made them feel.