10 Ways To Improve Your Communication

Anybody can improve their communication skills. There is far more to learn about conversation and relationships than any of us could realize. You can find talk shows; radio programs; clubs dedicated to public speaking; ordinary conversations; whatever type of interaction you choose. Certain rules always apply when it comes to interaction through words, and it's all in the attitude.
1. What you know.
It's important to be clear about what you know and what you don't. Talking at length about a subject you know very little about can become embarrassing. In the same way, it pays to take a good honest look at yourself and be aware of your own strengths and weaknesses. Playing on your strengths is important in all kinds of relationships.
2. Listening.
Asking questions is a great way to start a conversation, provided they are not too intrusive. But don't forget to listen to the answers! Some people simply pass from one question to the next like an interviewer. Remember, conversation is a two way process. Your next remark should arise from what the other person has said in response to your original question.
3. Humility
We all make mistakes, ...
and sometimes it is important to acknowledge them. Of course, you should not always be putting yourself down, and there is no need to draw attention to your bad points. If you have said something out of line or out of place, simply apologize and move on.
4. Eye Contact
When talking with one person, make eye contact - but don't stare. Staring will be experienced by aggression by the other person. If you are talking to a group of people in a meeting or a gathering, remember to move your gaze around the group to include everybody.
5. Kidding around
A little bit of humor can do wonders to lift the tension, or worse, boredom while you are speaking. It wakes people up, and laughing will make them feel happier. However, there is nothing worse than a joke that falls flat. Practice your jokes on a safe audience such as your family before adding them to a prepared speech.
6. Be interested in others
When it comes down to it, the first priority for most of us is our own selves, followed by the people that we feel belong to us. It can take some wisdom to be truly interested in a person who is very different without trying to put them down or prove that our own way is better. How do you relate to people of a different race, nationality or sexual orientation? Can you be interested without being intrusive or critical?
7. Me, myself and I
Some people like the sound of their own voices and talk about themselves until others fall asleep or run screaming from the room. You're not one of those people ... right?
8. With a smile
A smile, like eye contact, can make an instant connection with another person. It makes them feel good and establishes friendly relations. Don't hold back on smiling - you have nothing to lose.
9. A role model
There must be at least one or two people in your life who really impress you with the way that they make a speech or relate to other people. Instead of sitting there wondering why you can't be the same way, watch how they actually do it. Act like them and pretty soon, you could have the same success.
10. Preparation
Whether you are making a speech or going to a party, some preparation is always worthwhile. For public speaking, make notes and practice your speech. If it's a party, ask the host a few questions about the other people who will be there.  Remember, preparation makes for effortless communication.