Verbal communication includes the sounds you use to make words, the words you use to create speech and the language or dialect you use when speaking. Improving verbal communication in situations of interpersonal communication or public speaking requires attention to both what you say and how you say it.
Understand the Verbal Communication Process
Verbal communication is effective when the message you put out is the message your listeners receive. For this to happen, it is essential that you understand the process of verbal communication. This process consists of eight steps: the source, message, encoding, channel, decoding, receiver, feedback and context.
You are the source, the message is what you are trying to communicate and encoding involves the words you use to convey that message. A communication channel is the method you use, such as face-to-face or by using the telephone, whereas the context is the environment, such as casual conversation or a formal corporate atmosphere. Once you convey the message, the receiver uses listening skills to decode, or understand, the message and provide feedback in the form of a response.
Think Before You Speak
It is not possible to make a second first impression. If you are in the habit of speaking without thinking, break the habit. As the source of the communication, encode your message with care. To accomplish the objective of getting your message across, think about and be aware of the words coming out of your mouth. Also, focus on the person or people to whom you are speaking to determine if listeners are accurately decoding the message you are trying to communicate (See References 2).
Practice Active Listening
Focus on the other person. Becoming a skilled listener will not only help in successful decoding but also increase your abilities to persuade, motivate or negotiate when speaking. Focus on and make an effort to hear and understand what another person is saying. Practice active listening by making eye contact, paying attention and showing the speaker you are listening. Provide feedback designed to clarify misunderstandings, get more information, and make sure you understand the message. Never interrupt someone who is speaking and always treat the other person or people with respect (See References 3).
Verbal Etiquette
Whether you engage in casual conversation or are in a business setting, put people at ease by making appropriate introductions if necessary. Adjust your language to the audience you are speaking with. For example, overly casual conversation in a business setting may not be appropriate. In addition, using industry- or company-specific jargon with people who may not know what you are talking about is bad verbal etiquette (See References 2).
Appropriate Body Language
Body language can clarify verbal communication or make the message you are trying to communicate more difficult to understand. Eye contact, appropriate gestures and the way you hold yourself will either support or undermine your message (See References 4).
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