Talk the Talk


Word Count: 438

Summary: 5 practical ways to improve your communication skills.



Talk the Talk

Do you know why toddlers throw temper tantrums? They are

angry, they are frustrated, they want something, but they

have a limited ability to verbally express themselves.

On the flipside, the most influential leaders in business

and politics are successful because they know exactly what

to say, how to say it and when to say it. They have an

uncanny ability to paint a picture and persuade people to

buy into their vision.

Unfortunately, most people are more like a toddler than

they are a leader. Miscommunication runs rampant in our

relationships and work environment. We know what we are

thinking, but we aren't able to put those thoughts into

words. We can't find the words that fit the emotion we are

experiencing or the idea we want to convey. So we, as

adults throw our own version of a temper tantrum using the

silent treatment, insults or resentment. Most of us can't

find the right words, because our communication skills are

too limited.

Here are 5 ways to improve your communication skills:

1. Read more. Fiction, biographies, magazines, newspapers,

just about anything. You will be able to pick up new words

and see them naturally used in context.

2. Speak slower. Give your mind time to search for the

appropriate word and use it at the right time. Have you

ever had the experience where you were babbling on and on

not quite saying what you mean, only later to have the right

words come to you? The words will come to you when create

the space for that to happen.

3. Learn a new word everyday. There are calendars,

websites, and newsletters that have word-a-day programs.

Pick up a new word every morning and commit to use it

several times throughout your day.

4. Learn of the power of distinctions. Distinctions are

subtitles of language, that when used correctly give your

words more punch. There is a distinction between power and

strength, between respond and react, and between fulfilled

and satisfied. The differences are subtle, but they do

exist. Using the right word in the right situation will

have an impact on how your message is received.

5. Study great communicators. Use the tape player in your

car to create a university on wheels. Listen to some of

the books on tape put out by business leaders and public

speakers. Notice their word choices, their sentence

structures, their use of humor. Emulate their style as you

begin to create your own.

It is not difficult to become a better communicator. Take

advantage of the many resources available to help you in

that quest.

About the Author

Myrtis Smith is a personal coach. She works with people who are undergoing a career change. Sign up for her free newsletter Change Now! at www.premeditatedlife.com or send an email to changenow@premeditatedlife.com
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