Communication is a Key to Success

Without effective communication, a message can turn into error, misunderstanding, frustration, or even disaster by being misinterpreted or poorly delivered. Communication is successful only when both the sender and the receiver understand the same information. Communication is necessary for success in any business, and the type of communication will differ from circumstances and business needs. Communication is categorized in three different ways: verbal, non-verbal and oral communication. Great communicators are skilled at reading a person/group by sensing their mood, dynamic, attitude, values and concern of those being communicated with.

Understanding the types of communication skills and competencies is a vital skill for managers, business owners as well as employees. Interacting with others is important in any field of life and having the necessary skills and competencies to interact with others is essential no matter what business it is.

Verbal communication skills are very important and must be improved, particularly in a job in which employees deal with the public. Clear communication requires straightforward language that is neither too fancy nor too simple. Higher levels of communication competencies deal with persuasive speaking and these skills are necessary for management level employees and those in marketing positions within a company. All employees can benefit from public speaking courses, which help develop these key communication skills. Public speaking is the best way to build up confidence and retain a situational and contextual awareness.

Nonverbal communication is much more difficult for many people. It consists of body language and the cues that are given off while listening to someone else speak. Those in customer service positions need to have a highly developed competency level in listening. Nodding of the head, inclining towards the speaker and showing an open body let a speaker know that you are listening and hearing what they have to say.

Written communication has numerous advantages. First, it provides a record for referral and followup. Second, written communication is an inexpensive means of providing identical messages to a large number of people. Managers must be able to write clearly. The ability to prepare letters, memos, sales reports, and other written documents may spell the difference between success and failure. Developing effective communication skills can help all aspects of life; from professional life to social gatherings and everything in between.  The ability to communicate information accurately, clearly and as intended, is a vital life skill and something that should not be overlooked.  It’s never too late to work on communication skills and by doing so improve the quality of life.