Thursday, August 1, 2013

Effective Communication Techniques for Managers



Excellent communications skills are extremely important for managers to have. So here are some valuable techniques on how to improve communication skills.

1. Listen actively.

Observe as you listen carefully. Focus your attention to what's being said. Do not be biased and avoid forming opinions while someone is still speaking. Just listen. Restate what was spoken about to let the speaking know that you have understood. You can summarize the message and pull together all essential points so you and the speaker can recognize what things are note-worthy during the conversation or meeting.

2. Be patient.

When communicating with your team, always give them time to express their issues, thoughts, or concerns. Focus your attention on what they want to say. This will show them that you are truly open and interested. Many people communications tend to break down because of impatience. Many people tend to rush to get out of conversation. This is especially true to executives, who are very busy and who truly have a lot of good things to say and bright ideas to share. But remember that good communication is not all about talking. It's also about being a good listener. And to be one, you need to be patient. Do not interrupt someone as he or she talks. Delay your comments and other thoughts.

3. Nonverbal Message

Note that your posture matters. Let your body display interest and attention by leaning toward the one speaking or sitting up. Also, take note that equal positioning counts. In a casual conversation, it is ideal to stand if the person you are talking to is standing. You sit is he or she is seated. Take note of your facial expressions. Remember that your feelings are being reflected by your facial expressions. Take note of your gestures and overall body language also, as they reveal so many things about how you interpret what people say. Make sure your gestures do not send the wrong message.

4. Communicate without being argumentative.

Express concerns, problems, or issues without being judgmental or confrontational. Say things without blaming other people. For example, you were disappointed or even angry because your team messed something up due to negligence, rather than emphasizing the faults and mistakes of the members of your group, suggest some ways to better their performance the next time around. When discussing, use "I" not "You." Instead of saying "You did not explain your point very well," say "I did not understand that well. Explain it again, please.

Consider communication skills course to further knowledge and be more effective in communicating with people.