In oral communication, the way we express ourselves plays a fundamental role in the way we are perceived by others. Being a good speaker involves more than simply conveying information clearly; It also involves being respectful, empathetic and effective in the way we communicate. To achieve this objective, it is important to follow a series of rules that will help us improve our skills as speakers and establish effective communication with others.
Rules of the good speaker
1. Active Listening
Effective communication is not just about conveying information, but also about actively listening to others. Pay attention to what they are telling you, ask questions to clarify and show interest in the other person's opinion.
2. Speak clearly
Express your ideas clearly and concisely. Avoid ambiguity and use simple language that is easy for your audience to understand.
3. Use an appropriate tone
Adapt your tone of voice to the context and the audience. Maintain a friendly and respectful tone, avoiding being aggressive or too informal.
4. Avoid interrupting
Let others finish speaking before speaking. Interrupting someone can be perceived as disrespectful and makes communication difficult.
5. Take care of your non-verbal language
Remember that your body language also communicates information. Maintain an open and receptive posture, use moderate gestures and maintain eye contact with your interlocutor.
6. Be empathetic
Try to put yourself in your interlocutor's shoes and show empathy towards their emotions and points of view. This will facilitate more fluid communication and avoid misunderstandings.
7. Avoid judgments and prejudices
Don't take for granted what the other person is going to say. Listen with an open mind and avoid making premature judgments or prejudices.
8. Use examples and anecdotes
Support your ideas with concrete examples or personal stories that make your message easier to understand and connect with your audience.
9. Answer questions
If they ask you questions, answer clearly and completely. Do not avoid uncomfortable or difficult questions, be honest in your answers.
10. Be consistent
Maintain consistency between your words and your actions. Do not say one thing and do another, as this generates distrust and weakens your credibility as a speaker.
11. Avoid monologues
Remember that communication is a two-way process. Don't just focus on talking, but also on listening and allowing others to participate in the conversation.
12. Take appropriate pauses
Don't be afraid to pause during your speech. This allows your audience to assimilate the information and gives you time to organize your ideas.
13. Adapt your message to the audience
Take into account the characteristics of your audience when communicating. Adapt your language, tone and content to their needs and level of understanding.
14. Use positive language
Avoid negative or emotionally charged expressions. Use positive and constructive language that encourages open and respectful communication.
15. Accept criticism constructively
Do not react defensively to criticism. Accept feedback from others and use it to improve your communication in the future.
16. Be concise
Don't get bogged down in unnecessary details. Be concise in your explanations and get straight to the point to keep your audience's attention.
17. Ask for feedback
Ask your interlocutors to give you their opinion on your communication. Listen to their feedback and use it to identify areas for improvement.
18. Practice active listening
Active listening is essential in effective communication. Practice skills such as empathy, paraphrasing, and confirmation to improve your listening skills.
19. Ask open questions
Use open questions that encourage reflection and deepening the conversation. Avoid closed questions that allow simple answers.
20. Use humor in moderation
Humor can be a useful tool for connecting with your audience, but use it sparingly and make sure it is appropriate for the context and situation.
21 . Master the art of argument
Learn to argue clearly and persuasively. Use evidence and logical reasoning to support your views and convince your audience.
22. Adapt your vocabulary
Do not use overly technical or complicated language if your audience is not familiar with it. Adapt your vocabulary to the level of understanding of your interlocutors.
23. Recognize the achievements and merits of others
Value the effort and achievements of others. Acknowledge their merits and show appreciation for their contributions to the conversation.
24. Encourage everyone's participation
Make sure all voices are heard in the conversation. Encourage everyone's participation and create an inclusive and respectful environment.
25. Be authentic
Above all, be authentic in your communication. Do not try to be someone you are not, since sincerity and transparency are fundamental values in a good speaker.
Following these rules of a good speaker will help you improve your communication skills and establish stronger and more relationships. effective with others. Remember that communication is a skill that can be worked on and developed over time, so practice these rules and watch your ability to convey your ideas clearly and respectfully improve.