In the last newsletter on Linkedin, I wrote about some public speaking/communication myths that hold us back. And I think it is only half my job done if I point out the problems and not talk about the solutions.
So in today’s newsletter, I am going to talk about a few strategies to conquer those myths and become a better communicator!
Spoiler alert: Some of these tips are secret sauces that I share only with my coaching clients
STRATEGY NO #1: USE SPEAKING TOOLS
What are speaking tools?
Speaking tools are devices that you can use to enhance your communication. For instance, stories, questions, statistics, examples, analogies, metaphors – there are tons of speaking tools that you can use to be an impactful communicator.
How to speaking tools help?
- Speaking tools add pizzazz to your speech/presentations and make you stand out
- They are extremely useful in adding variety to your voice modulation without trying too hard
Most importantly, speaking tools help break the monotony in your speech
Let’s take questions, for instance.
You can use them at the beginning a meeting to generate engagement – “How’s everyone doing today?” OR “Are we all excited to discuss the new project?”
The great thing about questions is that they don’t always need to be answered. Rhetorical questions do all the same functions – of breaking the monotony, engaging the listeners and still not using up time waiting for answers.
For example, “Do I have to tell you how the client will react to this?” No answers necessary here.
These are just a few ways to use one of the tools I have mentioned here.
You can find more speaking tools here
STRATEGY NO #2: DEVELOP A PRACTICE SYSTEM
A practice system is the single most important thing that’ll help you shine as a powerful communicator. I call it a system because it has to get done everyday. Sporadic attempts to work on your communication when the mood strikes will never work.
I get my clients to create what I call – the 20-20-20 system of practice. Set an hour out every day (at least week days) and divide that into 20 minute slots to do various practice activities.
I also set an activity schedule so that my clients don’t have to wonder what to do once the practice time starts. They can straight away get to work.
If you need ideas, you can always pick something from one of my previous newsletters: 51 ways to improve your communication or talk to me here
STRATEGY #3: WORK WITH A COACH
This is a master strategy that can put everything else into place. Self-motivation can be hard. We may not find the time. Work and life keep getting in the way.
Working with a coach is a commitment you make to taking a goal to its logical end.
- Coaching brings a certain discipline where you set time apart to work on your communication every week
Working with a coach can help you stay on track and be accountable to the goals you set
- Working with an expert also saves you time wasted on trial and error. Or starting and giving up and getting back to it.
A good coach should be able to correctly identify your areas of improvement and help you practically work on them.
You can learn more about the one-on-one coaching programs I offer here
This is a weekly newsletter in which I uncover tips and strategies to communicate better in your work and life to achieve success.
Do you have any suggestions about what I should write on? Drop your suggestions in the comments below!
If you wish to talk to me about improving your own communication, let’s talk
Check out videos on soft skills and communication here