How to Improve the Effectiveness of Communication

• Step 1

  Break it down to the other person's level. You wouldn't talk to a five-year-old the same way you would talk to a teenager, so in order to communicate more effectively with a person, make conversations relevant to their life experience and skills. Trying to sound intellectual during some conversations may leave some people clueless and confused, so make sure that you are speaking at their intellectual comfort level.

• Step 2

  Use relevant examples and metaphors. Giving someone a good example of what you mean during a talking point can open up their mind to what you're saying, but only if it is relevant and clear. Concise metaphors that can be related to the situation you are trying to explain will help to reinforce your point and improve the effectiveness of communicating it to the other person.

• Step 3

  Engage a person directly. When speaking to a person, using direct language and refraining from using mysterious clues or hints when conversing will help them to better understand the message you are trying to convey. Being a straight shooter may not necessarily agree with your personality traits but it will help to resolve issues and clarify positions quickly. This can also help to avoid conflict when a firm statement is made without doublespeak or indecisiveness.

• Step 4

  Align your body language. Much of what people absorb during communication is derived from body language, so it is important that your words and your body are saying the same thing. When you are talking to a person directly, make eye contact and make sure you are facing them. Avoid crossing your arms or legs, or turning away from them, as this is a sign that you are closed off to what they have to say or you are not ready to communicate honestly and smoothly yourself.

• Step 5

  Listen to what others are telling you. Effective communication is a two-way street, and you shouldn't be the only one talking whether it is a business or personal relationship. Listening intently to what others are saying to you is a good way to learn about a person's communication style as well as to avoid repeating what has already been stated. There will be a better understanding between both sides during communication and through your example; it will make the person more likely to listen to what you have to say without interruption.

• 3
• Try to lead by example for effective communication by communicating to others the way you expect them to communicate with you.
• Try to lead by example for effective communication by communicating to others the way you expect them to communicate with you.
• Without honest effort, true improvement can't be achieved. Don't expect success in this area if you fail to refine your current communication style and traits.
• Without honest effort, true improvement can't be achieved. Don't expect success in this area if you fail to refine your current communication style and traits.

References & Resources

• Find relationship communication information here.
• Mind Tools