If you are trying to accomplish something in life that deal with interacting with other human beings, whether it be in the personal or professional realm, good communication skills are integral for success. Good communication is at the root of everything—resolving conflict, successful collaboration, persuading someone to do what you want, having successful interactions with bosses, co-workers, clients, friends and family. In your professional life in particular, it can make or break you. If you are looking to hone your communication skills, here are some useful tips.

Ask Questions

Making more effective use of questions in your business interactions, whether you are talking to your boss or a potential client ,is a great way to uncover useful information, get a better idea of the other person’s thoughts, feelings and perspective and keeps us from falling into the dangerous trap of assuming. Asking questions also lets the other person know you are listening to them and that you care about what they think.

If you find yourself assuming something that was not explicitly stated, ask a question to confirm your understanding. If you feel your client has not been clear enough on what they want from you and their desired outcome, ask questions that will get you these answers. If you feel like your employee is not doing something right or you do not understand why they do things certain ways, ask questions to find out why they take the approaches they do.

Pay Attention

This may sound obvious, but it is something we are often pretty bad at. We know we should be putting all of our focus on the current task at hand, which in this case, is actually giving our full attention to the conversation we are currently having. But, we tend to let our minds wander; if we are on the phone, we may be checking emails or tending to other things while we should be fully focused on the person at the other end of the line. This is something we can improve by developing a greater awareness of when we are drifting and making a concerted effort to shift focus back. If you start making a more sincere effort to pay attention, you will become better at catching yourself when you start mentally moving towards something else.

Be An Active Listener

There is a difference between just listening and being an active listener and this difference is crucial for successful communication in your business endeavors. Active listening really helps you connect with the person you are talking to, get the whole message. The first step in being an active listener is the second tip—pay attention!! Other strategies for active listening include body language to show you are engaged, such as nodding your head, making comments that encourage the person speaking to continue, such as ‘’yes’’ or ‘’uh huh.’’ Do not interrupt when you disagree with a point. Every so often during the conversation, summarize what the person has said. This mode of operation can be difficult as it is a big departure from our usual poor listening skills, but if you can remember to keep the ultimate goal in mind—to truly understand and hear what the other person is saying—you will make the transition with greater ease.

Kelli Cooper is a freelance writer who enjoys researching and writing about topics that will help people become more successful. Visit getarealdegree.net if you are interested in learning about getting an online mba or other business degree.

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