Communication Skills In Business

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Communication Skills in Business

In business, you need to use language effectively in order to give proper feedback.

Look at the diagram below and you will see why feedback is an important concept in professional and business communication.

Feedback is the communication of information that relates to a person's recent actions to the goal.

Feedback tells a person whether their recent actions are taking them closer towards their goals, or NOT.

Your goal is to communicate proper feedback.

Feedback comes in three forms:

1. Constructive criticism.
2. Destructive criticism.
3. Appreciation and praise.

1. Constructive criticism

At times, we all need to receive constructive criticism - Since nobody's perfect!

Therefore, managers should know how to communicate criticism in a constructive manner.

We need managers to communicate any criticism in a constructive manner which will inspire and will give confidence to the receiver.

Failure to give constructive criticism is a common communication error.

Some managers give destructive criticism.

2. Destructive criticism

This is what we do NOT want. It is easy for negative feedback to deteriorate into destructive criticism.

Destructive criticism leads to bad feelings, broken relationships and a reduction in performance.

One of your main aims should be to note the difference between constructive and destructive criticism (feedback) and to perfect your skills in communicating constructively.

3. Positive feedback: Appreciation, praise and thanks

Managers need to give proper appreciation, praise and thanks.

Always remember the power of a few kind words.

Failure to communicate appreciation and praise is a common communication error.

Remember, the lack of appreciation is sometimes the cause of conflict.

One of your main aims in life should be to harness the power of a few kind words.

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 - Clear Communication

• Training to Improve Your Communication Skills
  People do make judgements of you, based on your appearance and what you say. In order to give the right impression, try some new ways to improve your communication skills. You will improve your confidence and gain respect in the process.
  Read Article >
• What is the Conversation Cycle?
  Conversations involve the sharing of information, ideas and opinions. Each person in the conversation must have the opportunity to inform, invite, listen and acknowledge to complete the conversation cycle.
  Read Article >
• The NLP Meta Model - Clear Thinking, Clear Communication
  Learn how the NLP Meta Model enhances communication by addressing Deletions, Distortions, and Generalisations. Discover practical tips for asking better questions and improving clarity in conversations.
  Read Article >
• Define Your Key Terms
  Do you want to be happy, wealthy or successful? How will you know when you have reached any of these goals, unless you you define your ideals?
  Read Article >
• Six Step Formula for Investigative Interviews
  Managers are often required to conduct interviews to obtain information that may be needed as evidence in court. Therefore it is essential that interviews are professionally conducted.
  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:

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