Communication is all about connecting.
Have you ever been in a situation where you found yourself saying, “That’s not what I meant,” or, “Things come out wrong through email.”
Communication is the process of sharing information, thoughts, and feelings between people through speaking, writing and body language. Effective communication extends the concept to require that the transmitted content is received and understood by someone the way it was intended.
That’s a tall order!
Fun Communication Facts:
- 7% of your messages are received through words.
- 38% of your messages are transmitted through tone.
- And, 55% of your messages are communicated through facial expressions.
What you don’t say with your words, you say with your body language and tone, leaving a lot of room for interpretation. Have you ever been accused of this? If so, I can help!
Here are some quick tips to help you communicate effectively:
- Fix your face. Seriously. You say so much with your facial expression. Adopt a poker face if you need to. Practice in the mirror. And remember, your face is communicating your thoughts loud and clear.
- Make eye contact.
- Have a light smile. Our natural resting face is a slight frown. People are more open to receiving information from someone who seems friendly and approachable.
- Do not cross your arms. It shows you aren’t open. Keep your hands folded nicely on the table in front of you.
- Nod when others are speaking to show that you are engaged.
- Take notes when people are speaking in meetings.
- Listen before speaking when others are talking.
- Communicate the bottom line before going into the details.
- Offer solutions to potential problems.
- Calendar communication instead of “dropping by” people are more open when they are prepared.
For more communication tips, contact me for a complimentary 30-minute discovery session. I can help you raise your confidence and communication skill level to get better results personally and professionally.
Here’s to fixing your face!
Gretchen Hydo
