How to Communicate More Clearly
How to Communicate More Clearly
Here are four ways to improve the clarity of your communication:
- Define all your key concepts.
- State your message in affirmative terms.
- Use numbers whenever possible.
- Use diagrams, images and visual aids.
Break language into two types: Vague and specific.
You should be specific in your language, not vague.
1. Define all your key concepts.
You need to specify the exact meaning of any vague, ambiguous or abstract terms.
There are many ill-defined terms such as, "appropriate size" or "Tasteful colours".
Anything that can be misunderstood, will be misunderstood.
Therefore, you must work to clarify the exact meaning of any ambiguous term, by providing a clear definition.
Clarity is a virtue, vagueness is a vice.
2. State your meaning in affirmative terms.
Write down what you do want, as opposed to what you don't want.
State your messages in affirmative statements.
Rather than say, "I don't want a small one", say, "I want one that is between X and Y metres".
Rather than say, "I don't what to go to Paris", say "I prefer to go to London".
Saying what you don't want does not clarify what you do want.
3. Use numbers whenever possible.
Using numbers is the best and easiest way to improve the clarity of your language. Why?
Because numbers denote more exact times, exact measures, exact proportions, they make your message more objective and less prone to misunderstanding.
Whenever possible, specify your meaning by using numbers.
4. If possible, use a visual image, diagram or drawing.
You have heard it said that a picture is worth a thousand words. If you cannot find the words, then consider using a diagram or a photograph or drawing.
Do whatever it takes to gain clarity.
About the Author: Chris Farmer
Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years’ experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.
Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.
Blogs by Email
Do you want to receive an email whenever we post a new blog? The blogs contain article 5-10 minutes long - ideal for reading during your coffee break!
Further Reading in Communication - Clear Communication
-
How to be a better communicator
Your work and personal relationships would benefit if you improved your style of communication. Please check out these four strategies you can use straight away, to be a better communicator and gain more co-operation from people around you.
Read Article > -
Think Before You Speak
Did you see the upset that Donald Trump caused last week with his ill-thought-out words about COVID-19, in front of the world's media? This is a great example of why you should always think before you speak.
Read Article > -
How to Ask the Right Questions - Good communication skills
Good communication is not only about the proper presentation of ideas, it is also means developing the ability to ask the right questions.
Read Article > -
Six Body Language Tips for Virtual Meetings
Discover 6 top tips for online body language with expert trainer Chris Farmer. Anyone can learn these simple techniques to get more from Zoom and Teams meetings.
Read Article > -
How to Communicate Effectively
How to Communicate Effectively In order to do well, you will need the cooperation of others. You will need to gain the cooperation of many people, including: Your partner Your bank Your customers Your suppliers Your colleagues at work Failure to gain their cooperation will mean either: They won't help you...
Read Article >
Looking for Communication Skills Training?
If you're looking to develop your Clear Communication Skills, you may find this Communication Skills Training Course beneficial:
Open Training Course Pricing and Availability
Next Open Course Starts in 5 days, Online - Teams, places available