How to Communicate More Clearly

Important: GDPR Email Preferences

As you may already know, the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will be coming into effect on 25th May 2018. We take your privacy seriously and we are working hard to ensure we comply with the new data protection laws. You can find out more about how we're doing this in our privacy policy on our website.

We want to make sure you continue to receive the latest newsletters, blogs, special offers and more.

As someone who has opted-in to receive our emails in the past, we’d like to give you this opportunity to confirm what you wish to receive:

Just so you know, if you don’t let us know what kinds of emails you want to receive from us, we’ll stop emailing you on the 24th May 2018 - you'll be missing out!

You are of course free to change your mind at any time – just follow the link at the bottom of any of our emails.

Advert

How to Communicate More Clearly

Here are four ways to improve the clarity of your communication:

1. Define all your key concepts.
2. State your message in affirmative terms.
3. Use numbers whenever possible.
4. Use diagrams, images and visual aids.

Break language into two types: Vague and specific.

You should be specific in your language, not vague.

1. Define all your key concepts.

You need to specify the exact meaning of any vague, ambiguous or abstract terms.

There are many ill-defined terms such as, "appropriate size" or "Tasteful colours".

Anything that can be misunderstood, will be misunderstood.

Therefore, you must work to clarify the exact meaning of any ambiguous term, by providing a clear definition.

Clarity is a virtue, vagueness is a vice.

2. State your meaning in affirmative terms.

Write down what you do want, as opposed to what you don't want.

State your messages in affirmative statements.

Rather than say, "I don't want a small one", say, "I want one that is between X and Y metres".

Rather than say, "I don't what to go to Paris", say "I prefer to go to London".

Saying what you don't want does not clarify what you do want.

3. Use numbers whenever possible.

Using numbers is the best and easiest way to improve the clarity of your language. Why?

Because numbers denote more exact times, exact measures, exact proportions, they make your message more objective and less prone to misunderstanding.

Whenever possible, specify your meaning by using numbers.

4. If possible, use a visual image, diagram or drawing.

You have heard it said that a picture is worth a thousand words. If you cannot find the words, then consider using a diagram or a photograph or drawing.

Do whatever it takes to gain clarity.

Blogs by Email

Do you want to receive an email whenever we post a new blog? The blogs contain article 5-10 minutes long - ideal for reading during your coffee break!

Your Comments

Further Reading in Communication - Clear Communication

• Communication skills for trainers or presenters
  Communication skills for trainers or presenters As a trainer or presenter: You have three major goals. To make your messages and material: 1. Informative 2. Enjoyable 3. Memorable Let us look at each in turn: Informative Your delegate must find your material informative. In ord...
  Read Article >
• The Importance of Communication Skills
  Use these three simple tips, to make sure that you communicate your message to others, in such a way as to gain their co-operation and agreement.
  Read Article >
• Make a Good First Impression
  First impressions really do count. When you meet someone you quickly decide whether you like them or not. And equally, other people will make a judgement about you. Here are some tips to help you make a positive first impression.
  Read Article >
• Improve your communication
  Communication Skills Are you looking for some training relating to communication skills? Communication is the act of transferring your mental images, ideas, information, facts and feelings into the minds of others. Some people are good at communicating. They find it easy to find the right word or phrase to capture their...
  Read Article >
• 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 >