Qualities of an excellent communicator
1. Be direct
If you tend to be passive aggressive or subtle when
communicating, you may find people do not understand what
you’re saying. Instead of talking around the topic or using a
parable to try and get your point across, just say it. Use clear
language and be direct. Otherwise you run the risk of having
someone guess what you mean, and it may not be even close
to what you intended.
2. Use your words, but don’t forget body language
Body language helps us communicate what we are saying. If
we are sitting in a relaxed position with our legs crossed, we
are not conveying urgency. People pick up a lot by sight, and
seeing how you communicate, as well as how you listen to
what they are saying.
3. Be a good listener
Being a good communicator is only half the battle, as you also
need to learn how to listen. Don’t talk over someone. Let them
finish before asking questions, and observe their body
language and tone of voice. All these aspects give insight to
what it is they are saying. If you are not 100% clear on what
they meant when they are done, ask them to clarify. Ask
questions about the topic and be specific.
4. Set clear expectations
When we set expectations in our mind, we may get upset
when they are not met. Instead of expecting that someone
knows what you mean, just tell them.
5. Never assume
Making assumptions can be dangerous. You may assume your
husband knows that you’re meeting at the restaurant that is
closest to your home, but in reality they thought you meant
the restaurant right next to your work. Did you say which
restaurant you were meeting at, or did you just give the name?
There could be more than one, did you consider that?