WHAT ARE COMMUNICATION SKILLS? 7 FACTORS TO IMPROVE COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Communication is considered one of the most important soft skills in modern times. Not only as a bridge
connecting relationships between people, but communication skills are also the key to success in all
fields. In the following article, let's find out what communication skills are and how to communicate
effectively!
What are communication skills?
Communication skills are a set of rules, behaviors and interactions drawn from experiences in daily
communication. However, you can also call it the art of communication. The reason is that it is not only
communication but also includes other skills such as: Listening skills, understanding; skills in using words
and shapes; persuasion skills, empathy… To improve and enhance communication skills, you need to
regularly practice and apply it anytime, anywhere.
The importance of communication skills
You may think that, just for normal communication, why should you care so much? That's because you
haven't realized the importance of communication. Every day, depending on the job, you interact with
more or less people. But if you stay subjective, don't pay attention to their stories, don't care about their
feelings, then many times will create bad habits for you and it affects that relationship. Or if you meet
friends or customers, you use inappropriate language and speech, will you be able to sign a contract, will
the friendship last?
Therefore, it can be seen that communication is a necessary and worthwhile skill for us to practice. When
you communicate well, you will take the initiative in the conversation, helping the other person always
feel cared about and respected. This means that you will have many new friends, your position in the
eyes of others will also increase and bring good results for your career.
7 decisive factors to help improve communication skills
1. Use body language
In a conversation, your posture, your posture, your eyes, your expressions all affect others. Therefore,
you need to adjust your body language accordingly, for example: Stand straight towards them, always
make eye contact when talking, smile, nod your head to show your point of view, don't point when you're
talking. it talks…
2. Speak in a confident, assertive voice
Talking in a low voice is a sign of lack of confidence. If you are a slow speaker, you should practice
speaking louder, faster, and more firmly. Hold your head high and speak clearly and affirmatively.
3. Do not talk around
When asked, answer honestly and directly. You can spend a few seconds thinking but don't answer in a
roundabout way, going off topic of the conversation. Speak directly to show your confidence and show
respect for the other person's time.
4. Remember the name of the person you are communicating with
When meeting a new partner, client or boss/colleague, quickly remember their name and call in a friendly
manner. For example, instead of saying in a general way “Nice to meet you”, give the person's specific
name, "Nice to meet you". This way, you will have a better rapport with the person you talk to
5. Actively listen
Knowing how to listen to others and care about the issues being discussed will help you improve other
skills as well as build relationships when communicating. To show listening, you should incorporate body
language such as smiling, nodding, giving thoughtful feedback, etc.
6. Control emotions
The pinnacle of communication skills is empathy and understanding. Because communication is an
activity of giving and receiving between 2 or more people, so you need to understand the feelings of
others and control your emotions accordingly. In this way, you will achieve the purpose of
communication.
7. Use words
Pronunciation and choice of words when speaking are also important factors affecting the communication
process. If you are timid, lack confidence, speak too softly or conversely you raise your voice, speak too
fast… it will make it difficult for others to grasp the message you want to convey. So, don't forget to
practice your use of words and pronunciation!
Through the above information, you probably know what communication skills are as well as the
importance and ways to communicate effectively, right? From now on, no matter what field, practice this
soft skill to equip yourself with confidence and steady on your career!