What to avoid to be a more effective communicator

Once you know the basic components of being an effective communicator, it can also help to know what to avoid.

Once you know the basic components of being an effective communicator, it can also help to know what to avoid. Here are some common issues to be aware of when working toward being a more effective communicator:

Rushed or slow pacing: An important part of effective communication is presenting your information in a way that the audience or another party can easily follow. When you speak too slowly, your listeners may become impatient. Rushed speech might not give your listeners time to process your message. Instead, maintain an even pace so your audience has enough time to process your information and come up with a question or statement in response.

Uncontrolled emotion: When you're speaking about something you're passionate about, it can be easy to let your emotions affect your communication. It is best to avoid showing anger, disappointment or others when you're communicating. When you can present your ideas objectively, it can be easier for your audience to think of how your input applies to them and how they can effectively respond.

Loss of focus: Time is valuable, and discussing off-topic issues can detract from the efficacy of your communication. For instance, if you begin a conversation with your team about a new construction plan, you will want to avoid discussing anything not directly related to completing the project. Maintaining a solid focus when you communicate can help your listeners understand your expectations for their actions after the discussion. When you are the listener in the scenario, losing focus may communicate to the speaker that you aren't interested in what they're saying. To foster a strong relationship, ensure they understand their input is important by maintaining eye contact and responding occasionally with phrases like "I see your point" or "Yes, I understand."

Inconsistency: For you to be an effective communicator, make sure that you maintain your position as consistently as possible. For instance, if you're a supervisor, being consistent may include sticking to the same management style for the duration of your role.

Interrupting: Effective communicators can read a situation to know when to respond. It is important to let other conversation participants convey all of their thoughts before you offer yours. This can show the other party that you are considering their ideas and the best way to fulfill their expectations for how to proceed after the discussion.