While this time of year compels us all to make changes in our eating and exercise - code words for changes to our bodies - just think of the effect on our lives if we also spent time making changes to our communication skills. Most of the people who come to me have in their list of needed changes concerns in how they approach others, make their wishes known, direct those they supervise so that the work atmosphere is cordial and productive. Added to that list, I think, needs to be how they communicate with their loved ones.

Effective communication skills are essential to success in work, no matter what that work is- doctor, lawyer, corporate CEO, manager of a midsize company, owner of a one person enterprise or an in-home business, or a beginner climbing the very first steps of success.

One article I reviewed for this piece stated that “mis-communication” is so common that it should be assumed. Actually, this is just another way of stating one of the rules of good communication- ask for feedback. Don’t assume the listener understands what you are saying.

Knowing who your audience is will also help in effective communication. Their interests, their educational level, the attention they are paying will help you tailor your message. No use in having a long complicated message if no one is listening.

It is vitally necessary to decipher the non-verbal as well as the verbal language that is in front of you. Looking away from the speaker may mean the listener wants to leave. Can you pick up when you’ve talked too long and the listener wants his or her turn? Staying tuned into the audience, one person or more, is difficult but will make you a better communicator.

A gracious “No” is also good to have in your tool box. Not knowing how to say no will leave you overwhelmed with duties. Saying no harshly can damage your relationship with the asker.

Listening is also a primary communication skill. Linda Stone, formerly of Microsoft and Apple lamented its decline at a recent conference held in San Diego, where she identified “continuous partial attention” as a phenomenon of the twenty-first century. She noticed the start of the “epidemic”, as she labeled it, about ten years ago when co-workers seemed to be fading in and out, aware of their surroundings, but then involved with their computer monitors. As cell phones, instant messaging, the BlackBerry and blogging became more pervasive, this fading – continuous partial attention – became more apparent. Are you a victim of this disorder? If so, take immediate steps to remedy it and you will find yourself gaining points with the boss.

Finally, Remember that communication covers a wide area, not just speaking, but writing memos and e-mails, telephone conversations and messages left. Watch your jargon, use good grammar, use good eye contact, give and ask for feedback and you will find yourself becoming a favorite with both your supervisors and your supervisees.

Marie Mastria
http://www.Commuter-assist.com