1. Articulation of thoughts
Articulation of thoughts has to be the part of effective communication training program. Articulation of thoughts means thinking before speaking. Although we are taught this in childhood, as grown-ups we often forget to implement it.
Defining a thought before it is said is the foremost rule for any communication to be successful. This makes the conversation specific and results-oriented.
2. Listening Skills
Every communication skills training should cover listening skills as the most important content of the program. The importance of good listening skills can’t be ignored. Ironically, the majority of us lack in this aspect. To communicate clearly it is imperative to listen attentively. There is a difference between listening and hearing.
To develop the art of good listening we sometimes need to clarify things the speaker has said. We also need to be aware of body language, and to also empathize with the speaker. Unnecessary arguments on the road, at the office or at home can be avoided if a conscious effort is made to improve listening skills.
3. Body Language
No one can deliver communication training effectively without covering body language in training content. Body language refers to speaking without words. It is about the gestures and expressions that we should know when it comes communicating with other cultures. Experts say only thirty percent of communication happens through talking—expressions and gestures matter a lot.
In different cultures the same action can have different meaning. For example a firm handshake is expected in North America but people in France prefer a gentle and small handshake.
4. Empathize with others
The success rate of your effective communication skills training will increase if you start empathizing with others. Try to understand others’ viewpoint especially when you do not agree with them. By empathizing we try to move toward resolution and effective communication.
5. Respect for others
Communication training teaches you to respect every opinion. A simple guideline for a communication to be successful is respect.
Not having a solid command of the language (or even a lack of fancy words) does not show that a person is inferior. Simultaneously thinking that we are always right and others are wrong showcases disrespect.
We need to give equal importance to another person’s idea. Doubting their caliber only leads to a psychological barrier which hinders the effectiveness of our communication skills.
6. Own the mistake
Accept your mistake instead of debating every time and for everything. If you have hurt someone (even if unintentional), accept your mistake. Once the responsibility is accepted, effective communication begins.
Hurting someone doesn’t lead you anywhere, in fact it makes the whole situation stressful. Accepting your mistake builds strong relationships and good rapport, two very important elements of effective communication skills training.