Communication has multiple dimensions including: self-talk, speaking, writing, body language, public speaking and more.
By Self-Talk, we mean that what we say to ourselves is truthful, and yet stays positive. This can include writing notes to oneself, daily affirmations, goal planning and the like.
Speaking is where we talk with others, either individually or in small groups or teams. Here we need to make sure that we are using the correct verbiage so that we impart our message with optimal understanding without “speaking down” to anyone.
Writing has become all important in today’s world because of technology (emails, TXTing, social media, etc.). In writing, a key element is that we are clear and concise in our words, and that our readers understand what we are trying to say. Additionally, we always need to remember that what we write may become “public” at some time in the future and we don’t want those readers to mis-construe our words.
Body Language is how we come across to others in a visual and non-verbal manner. Research has shown that this can be as much as 55% of communications when interacting with others in a live, face-to-face setting. Included in this are posture, gestures, movements, expressions, mannerisms, visual ticks and more. Vocal tone or inflection is often included in this list.
Public Speaking is different than “everyday” speaking in that our purpose is to inform, persuade and/or entertain. In this setting is is a “one way” process where there is usually no back-and-forth interaction. While often feared more than death and taxes, it can actually be quite pleasurable once we know the tips and techniques of good public speaking.
The More? Any time that we have to communicate with anyone, we need to assure that we are doing it, regardless of the medium, in clean, clear and concise words and actions so that there is no misunderstanding of our thoughts or message.