10 Ways to Improve Your Communication Skills

10 WAYS TO IMPROVE THE COMMUNICATION SKILLS Effective  Communication  Skills  are  the  Mark  of  an  Achiever. Have you ever  blown  a deal, a job interview, a  promotion, or a relationship, because of  your communication skills, Maybe  you just couldn’t  think  of the  right words  to  say. Has  your tongue ever  seemed  disconnected  from  your  brain,  You  can  easily  overcome  anxiety,  expand  your abilities, and empower yourself for success by using these tips. 

1) Listen without judgment. The key to good communication is listening well. Save your judging for later after you have heard and understood what was said. 

2) Listen with the willingness to be swayed to the other person's opinion. No obligation to actually being swayed, but stay open to the option. 

3) Listen without thinking about what you will say next. Take time before you respond. 

4) Do not be invested in being right. Being right is not the point. If you must be right, you are not able to listen nor communicate because you have set up a barrier already. If you are always right that means the other person is always wrong. That cannot be true.

5) peoples are subject to distraction. Try to stay focused.

6) In all cases repeat back what you heard and ask if it is correct. 

7) Listen to yourself. Find quiet moments and pay attention to what you are hearing from yourself. Does your body tighten up about certain issues. Body language is not something to read only in other people. 

8) Say it honestly, but with consideration for the listener's feelings. Be polite, respectful and sincere. 

9) Understand and acknowledge that most things are not black or white, but somewhere in a gray area. Get comfortable with gray. 

10) Have integrity and build trust. Don't say what you don't mean. Don't promise what you won't or can't fulfill. Follow through with any commitments you make. Good listening skills take practice. 

Specific coaching  may  be  necessary  if  you find you have communication  issues  with  your  boss,  colleagues,  subordinates,  partners  or personal relationships.