What is a Good Communication Style?

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What is good communication style?

Definition: A good communication style is one that is:

• Relaxed
• Clear
• Credible
• Persuasive, and with a
• Positive intent

Nelson Mandela, during his later years, epitomises the concept of a good communication style. Mandela is perceived to be someone who communicated in a clear, credible, persuasive manner and he seemed to have a positive intent towards all.

That combination of communication styles has real power, which you can tap into.

Let us look at each style in turn.

Relaxed.

It is important to appear relaxed.

Even if you are not, try to appear relaxed.

If you are panic-stricken, then you will not attract many followers.

At all times, moderate your voice, keep a reasonable volume, pitch and pace.

Breathe deeply, relax your muscles and give yourself time to think.

Clear language.

Strive for accuracy and clarity in your use of language. Remember that every idea can be expressed using communication, ranging along a continuum from "clear, accurate and precise" at one end, towards "vague, unclear and ambiguous" at the opposite end.

When you are speaking or writing, strive to be clear, accurate and precise, in your choice of words.

For example, rather than say "Positive attitude", you might be more explicit and say, "Optimistic and confident".

Rather than say, "He was a bad influence" you might be more explicit and say, "He was dishonest and lazy".

Communicate exactly what you mean by using precise and accurate language.

Credible.

It is not enough to be clear, you also must be credible. Being credible means backing your statements with hard evidence, observations and facts. You need to demonstrate that your ideas are based upon a clear identification and a proper evaluation of reality.

Be a fact first communicator.

Persuasive.

It is not enough merely to be a "relaxed, clear, fact-first communicator". You need to be persuasive too. And to be persuasive you need to appeal to their emotions.

You can persuade people emotionally by recognising there are three major motivators: Desire, anger and fear. These are the big three emotions.

So, if you want to persuade people to act, remember they will act if they want (desire) it enough, or if they are angry enough, or if they are frightened enough.

Notice that desire is a positive emotion, and that anger and fear are negative emotions.

Therefore, we recommend using their "desire for a better future" as your primary method of persuasion. Again, think of Mandela and you will see he used visions of a better future to incentivise his political message.

Positive intent.

It is important that your message is backed by a positive intent towards others. Meaning, your message should not violate the rights of others, nor should your message induce others to violate other people's rights. By this I mean the right to life, liberty, property and the pursuit of happiness.

As far as possible, make your communication style relaxed, clear, convincing, persuasive and designed to help people improve upon their current situation.

That would be a good communication style.

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Further Reading in Communication - Clear Communication

• Four Steps to Improve Your Communication Skills
  The ability to communicate well is a vital life skill. In business, being able to communicate your goals to others, clearly, logically and specifically is vital if you are are to succeed.
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• Notes on winning by Arnold Schwarzenegger
  It's about living. Not just existing! Wise words from one of the most successful people in the world.
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• How Language Causes Confusion
  Ambiguity in business can be damaging both for your reputation and your finances. To avoid potential confusion when communicating with colleagues and customers, take a look at these five ways where ambiguous language should be avoided.
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• 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?
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• 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.
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