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UofL CBPA
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Interpersonal Speaking
Verbal communication is an essential part of
business and when it is executed correctly, good things happen. Here are a few different
ideas and styles to remember when speaking to anyone in a business setting.
Because speaking is such an indelible
activity, we tend to do it without much thought. But, that casual approach can be a
problem in business. Have you ever wished you could make a second, first impression
because you said something that was out of character or embarressing? That comment that
you didnt think about before you said, has created an image in someones mind
that can not be replaced even when you meant something totally different. When it comes to
oral communication, your goal should be to take advantage of its positive characteristics
while minimizing the dangers.
Speaking can be used as a tool to accomplish
your objectives. But, first you must break the habit of talkingspontaneously withougt
planning what youre going to say or how youre going to say it. You must learn
to manage the impression you create by consciously tailoring your remarks and delivery
style to suit the situation. Here are some things which will make you an effective
communicator:
- Remember to become aware of what you are
saying.
- Apply the same process you use in written
communication when you are communicating orally.
- Before you speak, think about your purpose,
your main idea, and your audience.
- Organize your thoughts in a logical way.
- Decide on a style that that suits the
occasion and then edit your remarks mentally.
- As you speak, watch the other person to see
wwwhether your message is making the desired impression. If not, revise it and try again.
Remember that various situations call for
different speaking styles, just as various writitng assignments call for different writing
styles. Here are four different styles that will suit every occasion:
1. Expressive Style is spontaneous,
conversational, and uninhibited. Use this when you are expressing your feelings, joking,
complaining, or socializing.
For example: "No way am I going to let
that nerd force an incentive-pay plan on UPS workers."
2. Directive Style is an authoritative and
judgemental style. We use this style to give orders, exert leadership, pass judgement, or
state our opinions.
For example: "I want Mike Romig to
explain the new pay plan to each manager."
3.Problem-Solving Style is rational,
objective, unbiased, and bland. This is the style most commonly used in business dealings.
We use it when we are solving problems and conveying routine information.
For example: "Stacy Lee might be able
to present the plan more favorably."
4. Meta Style is used to discuss the
communication process itself. Meta language enable us to talk about our interactions.
For example: "We seem to be ahving a
hard time agreeing on the specifics of the incentive-pay plan."
Following these few helpful tips will
increase your communication awareness which will ultimately increase your value as an
employee. Nice communicating with you!
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