How to be a More Confident Communicator
Be a More Confident Communicator
Most people would like to improve their confidence as communicators. We all have many thoughts, ideas, and feelings which we would like to express confidently to others, but we can't find the words. We say to ourselves, "I know what I mean, but I can't explain it." We need to be able to explain ourselves, and what we have at our disposal, is language.
The gift of the gab.
Some people have the gift of the gab; they can take whatever thoughts they have and translate them immediately into words. Other people, not so much. You can develop the gift of the gab.
Here are a few tips:
1. Prepare your message in advance.
If your message is an important one, then it is worth taking a few moments to jot down a few ideas onto a piece of paper to order your thoughts into a logical sequence. Only if your thoughts are expressed in a logical sequence will they make any sense to the listeners.
None of us are born with a natural ability to think logically; it must be learned and practiced. And the best way to practice is to write out your thoughts before you use them. If you know what you're going to say before you say it, it's much easier.
You don't have to have it word-perfect, but you do need to know the sequence of ideas you will cover and the order in which you will cover them.
2. Slow down.
The pace at which you speak is important. If you talk too fast, the person will hear you but may not understand what you're saying. It takes time to process information, and if the speaker talks too fast, the listener can get left behind.
Your listener might still be thinking about the first thing you said when you've moved onto the fourth item on your list. It is vitally important that you slow down to allow your listener time to process the information you are giving them.
Their facial expression will reveal whether they are tracking your conversation or if you've lost them.
3. Observe the reactions.
As you speak, observe the reactions your words are having on your listeners. If they seem to be following you and agreeing, keep going for a while longer, then stop and let them rest. If you are getting resistance or they look puzzled, then ask them a question to discover at what point you lost them.
4. Don't talk too much.
Even the best speakers can become boring after a while if they continue to talk in an uninterrupted monologue. Give others a chance to comment and to express their views on the conversation. If other people say things you don't agree with, don't tell them they're wrong. Simply say that you understand their point. (Understanding does not imply agreement).
5. Keep a relaxed, friendly facial expression.
Try to keep your face open, relaxed, and happy. Don't come across as angry, aggressive, or bored. Look into their eyes and smile. You will be amazed at what these two actions, when combined, will do for you.
Communication Skills Training
I hope these thoughts have been useful to you. Give them a try. They work every time.
If you want to learn more about communication skills, please attend our one-day communication skills course.
Definition: confident communication
In business, confident communication is a skill that lets you share ideas with calm certainty and gain understanding. It rests on a planned message, an easy pace, fast reading of listener cues and warm, open body language. If any of these parts are missing, clarity, impact and trust quickly fade.
Show CG4D Definition
- Message prepared and ordered before speaking
- Speech delivered at clear, steady pace
- Ongoing reading and response to listener cues
- Friendly facial expression and open body language
Article Summary
Confidence shows when you plan, pace, read the room, share the floor and smile; write a quick outline, keep near 150 words a minute, watch faces, invite views and use warm eye contact, and you will join the 91% of staff managers prize for clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions that frequently get asked about this topic during our training sessions.
How can I organise my ideas to sound more confident when I speak?
What speaking pace supports clear, confident communication?
How do I spot signs that a listener is lost?
Why does sharing the talk boost effective conversation?
Does smiling really improve my communication skills?
How can I avoid talking too much without seeming shy?
Can anyone learn the gift of the gab, or is it natural talent?
Thought of something that's not been answered? Ask Us Today!
Did You Know: Key Statistics
The 2024 LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report shows that 91% of UK hiring managers name strong communication as the number one skill they seek in new staff. Prezi’s 2023 State of Video Meetings report found that when speakers kept their pace at 150 words per minute or slower, viewers stayed watching 20% longer than when the pace was faster.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.
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Further Reading in Communication - Persuasive Communication
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Impression Management
Learn impression management skills to shape how people see you. Use clear speech, positive body language and a plan to make a good first impression every time.
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Everything is Negotiable
Learn core negotiation skills: plan entry and exit points, trade concessions, stay logical, and keep a BATNA so you can walk away and still secure fair deals.
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The Way You Speak to People
Learn how polite speech, positive language and respectful communication draw people to you, lift trust and help you gain cooperation at work and home.
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Understanding vs Agreement
Sharpen your communication skills by making sure listeners understand before you seek agreement. Use clear language and solid reasons to avoid costly conflict.
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How to Gain Co-operation
Learn four proven steps to gain cooperation: help first, ask politely, give clear reasons and always thank others. Boost your communication skills now.
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Looking for Communication Skills Training?
If you're looking to develop your Persuasive Communication Skills, you may find this Communication Skills Training Course beneficial:
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