We have been in a series exploring some keys to effective communication.  Maybe you have been bored waiting in line somewhere and start people watching.  For fun, I occasionally watch people and try to imagine what exactly they are talking about.  Often, by paying attention to the non-verbal cues, I learn a lot.

               In this post, we will look at the three primary verbal communication tools we often use in our leadership.  As a leader you must be able to communicate effectively utilizing multiple mediums.  Let’s look at the three most common ways we communicate with others.

Verbal

               A percentage of all our communication is verbal, but I am not talking about words, but the medium.  Talking when others cannot see us.  Most commonly this occurs on the phone.  To be more effective as a leader in communicating here are a couple tips.

1. Pay attention to your tone. The way we say something is just as important as the words.
2. Think beforehand. Take time to evaluate what you are going to say before you say it so you can communicate your thoughts clearly.

Since this is a mode of communication where we cannot see the other person, take a moment to check for understanding.  Ask the person what they heard you say and clarify if they did not understand.                                                                                                                                       

Virtual

               Even before the pandemic, virtual communication was a tool, but since 2020 its use has increased.  A Forbes magazine article stated that workers use digital communication tools for an average of 20 hours a week.¹  This has mobile phones, ZOOM, and Microsoft Teams topping the list.

               With this prevalence, how do we communicate effectively with this mode?  Here are a few ideas to consider.

1. Keep the background professional whether with a virtual background or simply an uncluttered one.
2. Limit outside distractions as if you are together in person.
3. Pay attention to non-verbals.

Since you can see the other person it enables you to see facial expressions and some body language.  Paying attention to these cues can deepen understanding of the other person.  When the visual cues make you unsure if you are communicating clearly, then clarify.

In Person

               Of all methods of communication, this is the best even though geography or time constraints may prevent it from being a realistic possibility.  When we are in the same room with another person we can read ALL the cues.  For example, if they are fidgeting, you may get a sense they are anxious or something else is going on.  This can be hidden in the other two forms of communication.

               When in person, here are a few ideas for connecting effectively.

1. Make sure the environment is relaxed and welcoming.
2. Pay attention to all body language and tone to understand the other person as much as possible.
3. Appropriately use physical contact to create a connection i.e. handshake or other appropriate contact to strengthen trust.

One more idea to consider is the environment where you meet.  If this is a relaxed meeting to get to know one another a casual environment may be more appropriate.  On the other hand, if you need to discuss important matters, a quieter environment with fewer distractions may be more suitable.

Which of these three modes of communication do you utilize the most?  How can you improve your communication in any of these areas?  Need help growing in your communication skills?  Check out this online digital program to help you grow your communication as a leader or reach out to me to discover ways I can come alongside you and your team to help you grow in effective communication.  Lead Well!

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1. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/digital-communication-workplace/ retrieved 8/18/24