Nine Tips for Successful Communication

By Joy Weaver

Here are some successful habits you should develop to enhance your conversation and communication skills.

Tips:

• Sincerely listen – pay attention when others are talking; it tells others that you are truly interested in them.
• Pay compliments – this is a great way to get a conversation started and make someone feel good. There is something special about everyone – it is our job to find it out and make that person feel special.
• Remember names. When you forget others’ names, this tells them they are not that important to you.
• Maintain eye contact – it is rude to look away when someone is talking to you.
• Remember common interests so you can reference them in future conversations.
• Exhibit positive body language – this speaks volumes regarding how you really feel about what the other person is telling you.
• Always be up to date on current events to use in conversation – this gives you something to discuss other than yourself.
• Do not interrupt or monopolize the conversation. Refrain from telling long stories or dragging out details. Remember when telling a story, have an interesting introduction, a strong closing and make sure they are close together!
• Follow up! Follow up! Follow up! This is the key to building relationships with others.

Joy Weaver is a speaker, consultant and author. In her book, How to be Socially Savvy in All Situations, you can learn power tips and faux pas to avoid on fifty-one various business and social situations. For more information go to www.justaskjoy.com