Most of us have played the game "telephone," which helps us understand how difficult it can be to verbalize a simple message to another person. Sometimes during verbal communication, a message can get translated incorrectly by the receiver. Mind Tools states that communication is only successful when both the sender and the receiver understand the same information as a result of the communication. Communicating effectively can be a difficult task; however, different techniques can help get a point across effectively.
Validate the Source
As the sender of a message, you must identify why you are communicating the message. Validate that you should be the one relaying the message and identify to the receiver that you have the correct information. An unbelievable source, whose information cannot be trusted, results in a receiver who will not listen, understand, or hear the message. For example, if you say, "I am not an expert in cooking an egg, but..." the receiver of the message may not believe what he hears. If you begin the message with, "I have read a lot about cooking eggs..." it identifies to the receiver that the message that you are trying to relay is worth listening to.
Keep it Simple
Mind tools recommends conveying information clearly and simply. Using more words than you need or adding related but unnecessary information can confuse the audience. Use words the receiver can understand and examples that he can relate to. Do say, "Don't fry the egg on high heat." Don't say, "Frying an egg is like learning to riding a horse; you need to start slowly." This message might confuse and be misinterpreted by the receiver.
Know Your Audience
Eliminate potential confusion by knowing the audience. Take into account the receiver's culture, language skills, and background. These may impact the ability of the receiver to understand the message. In addition, you should anticipate how the receiver will react to the message when you craft the message. Listen to feedback from the receiver and respond. This helps you get to know your audience, creates trust, and facilitates communication.
Be Aware of Your Nonverbal Communication
Sometimes, nonverbal communication that takes place while you verbalize a message trumps the spoken message. Many disregard the impact that nonverbal communication signals might have. For example, you might say, "I really want to teach you to cook an egg" while your arms are crossed and you look away. This identifies to the receiver that this message might not be sincere. Look directly at the audience, and have a confident posture to relay the seriousness of your message. Pay attention to nonverbal communication to help ensure the success of the message you send.
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