Communication: 3 Tips to Effectively Get Your Message Across [VIDEO]

What do eyes, a computer, social media, hands, and a pen all have have in common? They are all things we use every single day to communicate with others. So with so many methods, it should be easy to communicate well, right?

But in a survey of over 2,000 U.S. adults, two thirds of the managers said they’re often uncomfortable communicating with employees, and over half of the employees reported not being given clear directions.

This poor communication can end up costing a company of 100 employees an average of $420,000 each year. And the number only increases for larger companies.

Communication is clearly an integral part of success in our lives and in our work. Here are 3 tips to help you effectively get your message across.

1. Be clear and concise.

If your message is not clear, it will lead to misaligned expectations which will leave someone feeling confused or misunderstood. And to help clarify your message – be concise. Shorter is better. It leaves less room for confusion, and you don’t have to worry about holding their attention for as long.

2. Match your nonverbals to your message.

Each method of communication comes with its own distinctions. If you are in person, does your body language match what you are saying? Do your facial expressions match your message? Are you maintaining an appropriate amount of eye contact? If you aren’t in person, a too short email could come across as rude or blunt, but the same message might be fine over text. If you are typing in all caps, are you trying to shout? Because that’s how it will be perceived.

3. Double check for accuracy.

Error free communication builds your credibility. But each wrong fact or spelling mistake will chip a little bit more off of your credibility. When was the last time you got an email that referred to the wrong date or had multiple spelling mistakes? A message like that communicates to the receiver that 1) you are not competent or 2) you are not taking the time to communicate clearly.

Communication could be the deciding factor between an effective or ineffective leader. Comment below with your best practices for communicating. Contact us to learn how our experienced consultants can assist you in improving your communication.

Tiehl Haverstick graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations from Taylor University and has experience as a writing intern for a community foundation. As The Center Consulting Group’s Director of Communications, she manages the database, website, social media, marketing, events, and special projects.