Communicating techniques

Communicating

by Mara Burger

Communication styles:

verbal, non-verbal,written and visual:

​1. Verbal

a. Use a strong, confident speaking voice.

b. Be confident when speaking; your ideas must be clear and easy to understand;

c. ​Avoid filler words. It can be tempting, especially during a presentation, to use filler words such as “um,” “like,” “so” or “yeah.”

​d. Use active listening. The other side of using verbal communication is intently listening to and hearing others.

​Communication styles:

verbal, non-verbal,written and visual:

​2. Non-verbal

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​It is the use of your body language, gestures and facial expressions to convey information to others. You might smile intentionally (selfies) or unintentionally such as a smile when you hear a pleasing or enjoyable piece of information: " you have been given a deposit of....."

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​2. Non-verbal

​How to develop your non-verbal communication skills:

 

Notice how your emotions feel physically. Throughout the day, as you experience a range of emotions (anything from energised, bored, happy or frustrated), try to identify where you feel that emotion within your body. For example, if you’re feeling anxious, you might notice that your stomach feels tight. Developing self-awareness around how your emotions affect your body can give you greater mastery over your external presentation.

2. ​Non-verbal

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Be intentional about your non-verbal communications. Make an effort to display positive body language when you feel alert, open and positive about your surroundings. You can also use body language to support your verbal communication if you feel confused or anxious about information, like using a furrowed brow. Use body language alongside verbal communication such as asking follow up questions or pulling the presenter aside to give feedback.

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​Communication styles:

verbal, non-verbal,written and visual:

​2..Non-verbal

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A "closed" body languages such as crossed arms or legs, might show feelings of anxiety. On the other hand, an "open" body language will display both feet on the floor and arms by their side or on the table likely feeling positive and open to information.

​3. Written

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​Writing, typing or printing symbols like letters and numbers to convey information is helpful to record crucial pieces of information for future refence and sharing. Here is how to enhance your written skills:

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​1. Strive for simplicity. Write as simple as possible.

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​2.Don´t rely on tone. Because you don´t have the nuance of verbal and non-verbal communications, be careful with certain tones. For instance, sarcasm or excitement to communicate a joke might be translated differently depending on the audience. Add more personality to the verbal communication instead.

​3. Written

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Don´t rely on tone. Because you don´t have the nuance of verbal and non-verbal communications, be careful with certain tones. For instance, sarcasm or excitement to communicate a joke might be translated differently depending on the audience. Add more personality to the verbal communication instead.​

3. Written

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​Take time to review and set time aside to proofread e-mails, letters, or memos. You may identify mistakes or opportunities to say something differently. It might be helpful to have a trusted colleague review it as well.

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​4. Visual

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The act of using photographs, art, drawings, sketches and graphs to convey information. Visuals provide helpful context. People have different learning styles . visual communication might be mote helpful for some to consume ideas and informtaion.​

​Be sure to include visuals that are easily understood by your audience. For example, if you are displaying a chart with unfamiliar data, be sure to explain what is happening in the visual and how it relates to what you are saying. You should never use sensitive, offensive, violent or graphic visuals in any form