Where on earth did I get the term Success Communicator from? Well, It actually has to do with the one thing that differentiates us humans from the animals; The Art of Communication (in detail). Yes, animals communicate too and yet we humans have the ability to articulate ourselves to the degree that we can make the smallest thing very detailed. At least that’s what we like to tell ourselves. Some people fail miserably when communicating with others.
Being a Success Communicator
When people look at you, do they see hesitation in your eyes or confidence? If you need to give a speech to your friends or colleagues, are you excited or nervous? Communication is something that’s a part of everyone’s lifestyle, so why is it more difficult for some than for others?
The good news is that there are ways to become a success communicator instead of someone who projects fear and nervousness. The better news is that you can still be nervous and scared, but no one will even know.
Find Another Focus
Instead of worrying about how you sound or what you look like, try to focus on what you’re saying. Whatever you need to communicate, make sure it’s something that gets you excited. When your motivation is a personal topic or reference, you can relax about the other things that worry you. Outward focus points are also good, like a friend in the crowd or a point on the back wall far away from everyone else. And if all else fails, simply think of something you are grateful for. That should put a smile on your face.
Practice Your Speech
To be a successful communicator, you need to be certain your speech not only makes sense, but that it also helps to inspire people in some way. You might want to start by practicing your speech with a trusted friend or partner. They can give you their honest opinion in plenty of time to help you make any changes that may be necessary. Remember, if your speach (communication) doesn’t benefit any of the listeners, then what is the point of delivering it?
Awareness
When you stop to consider what’s making you nervous, you can tackle these obstacles long before you say a word. Take thirty seconds to write down all the things that make you nervous about your speech or talk. Then write down ways to address those anxieties. If you can’t address them at all, stop worrying about them.
No matter how often or how little you need to speak to others, being prepared for any problems is the best advice. In time, you might even begin to like talking in front of others.
These are only some key points and recommendations. Simply being ‘aware’ of the way you communicate is always going to improve your skills in The Art of Communication and to reinforce your sence of identity.
Become a better communicator and all areas of your life is bound to improve.
Sean Rasmussen
Success Communicator
SeanRasmussen.com © 2004 – 2007
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
The ability to communicate effectively is a great skill and one of the most important that humans, as social animals, can develop. But it doesn’t always come naturally, particularly when addressing large groups.
In terms of how to successfully communicate in pressure situations, I’ve found that the 6 Ps are a great place to start – Proper Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance. Step one for me is to know the message I am trying to get across, understand where the audience is coming from. The next important thing I find is to keep it interesting and to spice things up. It is all too easy for a great message to get lost in a dull speech or one which is people find hard to identify with.
Another useful method I have found is to speak passionately about topics. Apparently less than 10% of communication comes through the words used, nearly 40% of communication comes through how a speech is delivered, and over 50% comes though body language. I find it much easier to deliver a message when I can talk about something I am excited about. Not only does this make it a lot easier to deliver a speech in an interesting way, but it is also easier to confidently project through body language.
One other big thing to remember is not to speak to quickly. People listening to a speech need time to a) hear the words and b) digest the words. While it can be tricky to get used to, building an appropriate amount of silence in to a speech is important. Otherwise the audience can get lost and the message suffers.
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Good point, communication is so much about what we don’t say – our body language accounts for a massive portion of what we are putting across.
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Tom has a good point – the more passionate I am about a topic the easier it is to talk about it in public (or private). I think that is due to several factors
- topics I am passionate about I know a lot about, so I feel safe with the facts
- it is all positive emotions around my passions
- I had a lot of practice talking about the subject, that make sit easier as well
And I love the 6P’s Tom, didn’t know that one before
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The best way to overcome nerves and fear of public speaking is by actually doing it. Toastmasters is an international organisation that gives people the opportunity for personal development through public speaking. Another great organisation that promotes it are the many Apex clubs in Australia and a number of other countries. If you want to overcome your fear why not contact someone then go along and see what they offer. I have to also say that Apex is a fantastic community service organisation that does wonderful work. One of my early foray’s in public speaking was at an Apex club where we had a debate. Oh dear how bad was I? I was really really bad. But with time, practice and a positive attitude, I was in a team that won the state inter-club debating contest. Go me!!!!
If I know I am going to make a speech then I prepare for it, and I am used to getting positive feedback. What I am not so confident about is being unexpectedly called upon to address a group of people. I will have to think about that one.
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Hi Sean,
I think being a great communicator is a talent. Some people are natural communicators and have that special ability to move people. When they talk people listen.
History tells us that Hitler was a great orator. I’ll never forget seeing a speech that he gave. My German is not very good and yet, the passion and the intent was unmistakable. He was forceful and compelling. If he had only used his power for good …
It’s the same with Martin Luther King. All through time there are great orators that can inspire and uplift entire nations. It’s a true talent.
Most of us won’t have this natural ability but I think if we work at it, we can all improve our communication skills and be better communicators.
You are so right Jazz
It is a real talent. Unfortunately some don’t use it for good.
I have had to make speeches from time to time. I am naturally an introvert and have had great trouble in making a speech. The best way around it I found is to have a coach and go over and over it with them until I feel comfortable at it.
Great tips Sean
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