"Effective Communication Strategies for Real-World Success

Effective communication is a key interpersonal skill and by learning how you can improve your
communication has many benefits. It sounds so simple: say what you mean. But all too often, what you
try to communicate gets lost in translation despite your best intentions. You say one thing, the other
person hears something else, and misunderstandings, frustration, and conflicts ensue. This is very true
especially in the absence of physical, face-to-face communication.

Communication is beyond simply putting words into thoughts and emotions. It is done
effectively only when information is transmitted without changing both the content and the context of
the message. Simply put, communication is the art of creating and sharing ideas for a specific purpose.
It comes in many forms:
 verbal communication, which includes the use of language, sounds, and tone of voice
 non-verbal communication, which includes body language and facial expressions
 written communication, such as through journals, emails, blogs, and text messages
 visual communication, which involves signs, symbols, pictures, graphics, and emojis

Effective communication is dependent on how rich those ideas are, and how much of those
ideas are retained in the process. In order to be an effective communicator, a number of skills have to be
utilized. Which skill one chooses greatly varies and is dictated by the situation, the content or the actual
information a person needs or wants to convey, and the intended recipient of that information.

A key element in effective communication is audience analysis. “Audience” here does not only
refer to the people listening to you in a public speech. Rather, it refers to anyone who is expected to
receive the message you are sending. Knowing the audience, understanding their level and how they
need to receive the information – also known as skills on audience analysis – are extremely important in
“packaging” the message and sending it across. Audience analysis is therefore one skill an effective
communicator must have. It is imperative that you find out who the audience is – who will actually
receive your ‘message’ – and what they need to know. Only in doing so can you properly adjust all the
other elements of communication, such as your words or registers, your tone, and your expressions.

Another aspect that needs consideration in analyzing the audience is identifying and trying to
overcome possible communication barriers. These are not confined to physical noise (cars passing by,
someone pounding on the table) and physiological issues (an upset stomach), but could also include
cultural difference, varying levels of expectations and experiences, and difference in perspectives and
communication styles.

Anyone might experience one or all of these barriers at any given circumstance, and that such
barriers exist has to be recognized so that anyone who is trying to communicate can adjust and apply the
proper tools and strategies to remove those barriers that prevent the message from getting across.
Principles of Effective Communication

Effective communication requires a certain level of connection between and among people,
allowing a series of exchanges of thoughts and emotions, eventually leading to mutual understanding. In
order for that to happen, the following principles must be observed.

Clarity. This pertains to both the message and the purpose why the message has to be sent. The
message should be clear by using appropriate language and communication channels, but equally
important is that the reason for sending and receiving the message must be understood by both sender
and receiver.

Conciseness. The message should be as brief as may be required depending on one’s purpose, especially
in most modern contexts in the business and academic fields where time is of the essence. It should be
devoid of trivial details that would hinder communication.

Completeness. Despite its conciseness, the message should still be complete and accurate. Whenever
necessary, background information should be given to provide better context; facts and observations
may also be helpful.

Organization. Effective communication is usually planned in order to ensure the systematic flow of ideas
and transition from one point to another. There are instances, however, when communication is
impromptu, but this should not be an excuse for an organized presentation of ideas.

Empathy. The sender of the message should be sensitive to the needs and interests of the receiver. In
case of face-to-face communication, the speaker must always be conscious of the reaction of the listener
and adjust his/her communication strategy accordingly.

Flexibility. Different people have different communication styles, and consequently, different
expectations. Effective communicators know how to adapt to the varying needs and expectations of their
audience, and modify the message or the way the message is sent to avoid misunderstanding or
misinterpretation.

Effective communication is foundational to healthy working and personal relationships. People

In addition to strengthening your communication skills, you can also find better connections in your
personal and professional life by learning strategies to address common communication barriers that may
involve cultural or linguistic differences.

Importance of effective strategies in communication

Good communication helps prevent conflicts that may arise in the ambiguity of miscommunication.
Effective communication skills are foundational to any good personal or professional relationship. Learning
successful strategies in communication can impact your ability to motivate others, have more engaging
conversations, share information, and practice more efficient problem-solving.
Effective organizational communication strategies can help employees and coworkers understand what is
expected of them, meet goals, and boost motivation. Communication skills are essential if you're in a
leadership position or manage a team where you must delegate responsibilities while maintaining a
respectful relationship.

7 effective strategies in communication

Building your communication skills takes practice, but it is entirely possible and worth it. Find your
weaknesses and consider focusing on one or two strategies at a time. To improve communication skills,
notice your current communication style. With time and effort, you’ll convey better ideas, thoughts,
actions, and opinions in your personal and professional life. Use the following strategies to get started.

1. Convey important points clearly and concisely.

It may be tempting to insert additional information, include popular phrases to relate to the listener, or fall
back on filler words that lack true meaning. However, this could be perceived as clutter when you want
others to understand your message fully. Many people read or listen to tons of communications all day, so
it's important to choose your words wisely and organize your thoughts in a way that's easy to follow.

Use these tips to improve the clarity and conciseness of your communication:
 Use action verbs when possible.
 Offer tangible and concrete terms instead of ambiguous ones. For example, instead of, “Let’s
touch base sometime later in the week,” say, “Would Thursday at 3 p.m. work to check in on this
project?"
 Leave out filler words and clichés that lack meaning.
 End with a clear call to action if the communication requires the listener to do something.
 In written communication, use bullet points and avoid long streams of text.
 Consider using visual aids to support your points.

2. Use multiple modes of communication.

We often communicate to others using a wide range of different communication styles without even
noticing it. In an email to a coworker, you may include a screenshot of a document—a visual and written
method of communication. When you speak to someone face-to-face, meanwhile, you likely use
nonverbal communication with your body language and verbal communication as you’re speaking.

Intentionally using multiple modes of communication can add clarity to what you’re trying to convey.
Match the modes of communication you choose to the type of communication and listener. Consider the
best way to communicate based on the end goal and needs of the listener, and prepare to use multiple
modes of communication if sharing with a group.

3. Be mindful of your tone.

Think about how the interaction would be received if you were on the receiving end. If you’re
communicating a policy change to a group of employees, think about their pain points, any questions they
may have, and their needs. In your communication, build in that information with a tone of understanding
and openness so that employees who may be anxious about such changes are calmed.

When emotions get involved, it may be hard to maintain the tone you intend. Take time to think through
what you’ll say and how you’ll say it to maintain better control of your emotions.

4. Maintain awareness of your body language and nonverbal cues.

Similar to tone, it’s vital that you are aware of what your body language and gestures convey to listeners. It
may be challenging to control certain nonverbal cues, especially if you struggle with emotions tied to the
conversation. Practice being aware of your body and facial expressions in your daily communication to
start understanding where you can improve. Ask for feedback if appropriate.

Practice these ways to use body language to improve your communication skills:
 Uncross your arms to maintain a more “open” position.
 Speak at a steady pace and avoid talking and moving quickly or erratically.
 Match your eye level with the listener—if they are sitting down, sit with them.
 Maintain eye contact.
 Shift your posture and gestures to match that of the listener if needed.
 Stand facing the person you’re speaking with.

5. Know your audience.

To know your audience is to understand their thoughts and feelings—it involves perspective and will take
time and thoughtfulness. Modulate your tone, gestures, and body language to help your audience
perceive your motives and intentions. Before you send an email, approach a coworker, or walk into a
meeting, take the time to understand the audience and consider how they may feel or react to what
you’re about to communicate to them.

6. Focus on what others say and acknowledge it.

When you can focus on what you are saying and what others say in response, you can tailor your
communication style and content appropriately. Referred to as active listening, this technique shows you
are listening through nonverbal communication.

You may be more effective in your communication when you can acknowledge the perception of others
and respond appropriately to their feedback, questions, or suggestions. Be open and listen, avoiding
defensiveness and interrupting. If you don’t know how to respond, simply tell the other person that you'll
get back to them once you've given it greater consideration. There is no harm in asking for time to provide
a thoughtful response.

7. Request and provide feedback.

Asking for feedback can be helpful if you’re struggling with effective communication. It can also help you
build useful communication strategies in a leadership role.

Ask a boss or coworker to provide constructive feedback, or record yourself and watch for any nonverbal
communication that could negatively affect your ability to transmit your message successfully. Manage
your emotions and pride to accept and implement constructive criticism. When you ask for feedback,
invite the listener to point out things you might be struggling with, thank them, and be mindful of their
time.

Overcoming potential barriers to effective communication

Communication barriers can be anything that negatively impacts your ability to communicate
appropriately with others. From the tools you use to communicate to your methods of communication,
barriers may be physical, emotional, cultural, or linguistic. Fortunately, there are ways to address these
barriers and improve your ability to communicate in varying scenarios.

Emotions

Sometimes, emotions can cloud your ability to communicate effectively and actively listen. Emotions like
anger or disappointment can affect your ability to communicate because your brain struggles to process
what is being said, especially if you're experiencing stress or anxiety at that time.

To mitigate the impact of your emotions, wait until you’ve managed them before choosing the best
method and environment to speak with a person or group of people. You can also involve a mediator or
neutral third party.

Perception

How others perceive you and the motives behind your words and actions can help or hinder your
communication ability. To avoid negative perception, be sure your intention is clearly stated and
understood, have open body language, and make time for follow-up questions.

Culture

Social differences among cultures can create misunderstandings that impede effective communication.

It’s important, particularly in the workplace, to ask questions about communication standards, norms, and
preferences if you suspect a cultural-based communication barrier. Companies can be sensitive and
respectful to other cultures by communicating the desire to meet the communication needs of all
employees.

Language

Language barriers don’t just refer to speaking different languages entirely, but also regional and dialectal
differences between people and how they each understand the same language. For example, there may
be two ways to say the same word, associations tied to certain words or phrases, or colloquialisms in one
part of the United States that don’t exist in other regions, among other things.

To overcome language barriers, avoid jargon, clichés, phrases, or slang that may not translate well without
further explanation. In other words, know your audience. Also, some technical terms may be appropriate if
you're writing an email to a coworker or supervisor, but not when speaking at a conference for a group of
students.

Interpersonal

Interpersonal barriers refer to the relationship between you and the person or people with whom you’re
communicating. Interpersonal barriers can be a lack of trust, engagement, or a difference of opinion. You
can more clearly communicate in these instances if you can be transparent, open to criticism, and keep
strong emotions at bay. Understand that when interpersonal barriers are present, you may need to
compromise, offer solutions, and even step away and take time to consider the situation.

https://www.coursera.org/articles/strategies-in-communication