Welcome to another episode of The Art of Business English. In episode 80 we are going to cover part 2 of my 2-part series "10 Hacks to improve your communications skills".
Last week we covered the first 5 hacks, which were, keeping it simple, keeping it short and concise, using sequencing language, listening effectively and asking genuine questions.
If you haven't already listening to episode 79, then go and take a look at that, it is full of value.
As always, if you are enjoying the Art of Business English, then please share it with your friends, register for a free account to get access to transcripts and please leave me any comments or questions below.
So, let’s get started with part 2 of 10 hacks for better communication skills.
Clarify what you mean
Effectively clarifying what you mean is a great skill to have. This will help you control the conversation more effectively as well as ensure that you are being understood and that you also understand what is being said to you.
Use intonation
English is a rhythmic language, meaning we kind of sing as we speak. Therefore, it is super important to learn how to use intonation in your voice. It is a powerful tool to being a better communicator and presenter. Remember, English does not have accent signs, so you really need to learn how to put the correct "stress" on words to make them sound natural. Poor pronunciation has a really negative impact on understanding.
Use body language and hand gestures
All the best presenters and communicators know that the secret to effective communication skills is using the non-verbal aspects of communications, such as body language and hand gestures.
Using your hands to help engage people and demonstrate a point is really effective. People are much more likely to listen and follow someone who effectively uses power posing and purposeful hand movements.
Learn new vocabulary and use it
If we want to speak English more effectively we need to have a wide range of vocabulary at our disposal. It doesn't have to be the most advanced or literary vocabulary, however the better we can describe what we mean the more effective our communication is.
You can learn a lot of vocabulary for business here on The Art of Business English website and through our eBooks and podcasts.
Smile and be polite
The importance of good manners cannot be overstated. Nowadays, people are in such a rush to go here and go there, and get this or that done, that the art of politeness is sometimes lost.
Smiling and being polite is essential to effective communication and will help you get many more things achieved than through threats and force.
Watch the lesson below
If hope you enjoyed episode 80 as well as my complete 2-part series on 10 hacks to improve your communication skills.
My advice to you, is to start thinking about these hacks and ways which you can start to put them into practice. Some of them are pretty easy, however I would really encourage you to become a better listener. This is one of the biggest problem people face.
Well, that is all from me until next week. Have a great week, and I will see you all next week for another episode of The Art of Business English.
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