6 Helpful Tips for How to Communicate Better

The way you communicate can either open doors or shut them in your face. Communication is more than just speaking; it is getting your message across to the other person clearly and concisely.

Why is the skill of communicating so important? Learning communication skills can deepen your relationships and help you express and understand empathy. Communication is the key to positions in leadership, not just in the workplace but at home. You need to inspire and motivate people to do what needs to be done.

Communication skills can help you influence and guide others, whether you are motivating your team to reach quarterly goals or getting your teenager to load the dishwasher.

Knowing how to communicate better is within your grasp. Start with a few of the tips below.

Practice Active Listening

Many people do not actually listen to others. Instead, they focus on what they plan to say next. Active listening is listening to understand. It is asking questions to learn more, not just nodding your head and agreeing at the appropriate times. Look the speaker in the eye and ask questions.

Ask the Right Questions

If you have trouble conversing with others, analyze your questions. Are you asking yes/no questions or questions that only require a one-word answer? Frame your questions as open-ended, allowing the other person to expand on the answer.

Watch the Other Person’s Body Language

People are not always honest about their feelings by their words, but you can tell by their body language. Watching the other person’s body language will give you insight into what to say and how to manage a situation. Once you learn body language cues, you can determine if they are open to a new idea or need more details.

Honor the Other Person

People can tell if you want something from them. You must honor and respect the other person if you’re going to understand them. Even if you need their help (for example: the clerk in a store), address them with respect, make eye contact, and actively listen. Make conversation if you have time, and ask about their job, family, or hobbies. Thank them generously for their help. Not only will they want to help you again, but they will also feel like they made a friend.

Be Clear

We all like to tell stories. However, people will lose interest if you get lost in a story with multiple tangents. Always be clear and concise when asking questions. Although you want to put the listener at ease, respect their time by getting to the point. The more communication skills you learn, the easier it will be to converse with others, depending on their personality and needs.

Go Further with Personal Development

Now that you have a few ideas of the skills needed to communicate better, you are better equipped to get your message across personally and professionally. You can go further with communication and personal development by enlisting the help of a Christian counselor.

A Christian counselor will assess your needs and discuss your goals. Together, you will create a plan to reach those goals. You can learn how to communicate better and move your career and life forward. To meet with a Christian counselor to improve your communication skills, contact our office today.