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10 Ways to Communicate More Effectively

Featured Author:

Stephanie Shkolnik

Stephanie Shkolnik is a freelance publicist and writer with a bright smile, a charismatic personality, and determination. While many twentysomethings are still trying to find "the light at the end of the tunnel," Stephanie found her passion for PR years ago, and has been securing appearances, interviews, and radio shows across the country for small businesses. Not to long ago, Stephanie graduated from the University of California, San Diego with a Bachelor's in Communications and knows what its like being a student during today's technological determinism. You can find more of her work on Fabulously40.com

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The opinions and statements made in this article are solely those of the author and do not represent the opinions or representations of the University of Phoenix.

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About University of Phoenix

At the John Sperling School of Business of University of Phoenix, our degree programs are designed to help you develop your knowledge and skills in business and management. Our unique learning culture bridges the gap between theory and practice, preparing you to apply what you learn directly to the workplace.

At University of Phoenix, you learn in a personal, small-class format taught by seasoned professionals who hold advanced degrees. Many of our faculty members are also distinguished practitioners in their industries, bringing their experiences directly to the classroom. Along with the sound business knowledge provided through the curriculum, our instructors also focus on the development of interpersonal and business communication.

As a student, you will utilize a unique learning laboratory where innovation and technology help you get the best out of your experiences. You will work on real-life problems in a learning format combining case studies, simulations and our virtual organizations.

Business Accreditation

We regularly review our John Sperling School of Business degree programs for academic relevance. Our bachelor’s and master’s programs in business, and the master’s in management program are accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs. To attain such programmatic accreditation, an institution must meet rigorous standards of academic excellence in business education.
While widely available, not all programs are available in all locations or in both online and on-campus formats, so please check with a University enrollment advisor for more information.

University of Phoenix is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association (ncahlc.org). For more information regarding state licensure, please click here.

More articles from this author:

• Three Ways to Stop Procrastinating at Work
• Four Ways to Jump-Start Your Job Search Efforts

Effective communication is key in order to build a strong relationship with anyone. You have to be prepared at all times to engage in a conversation with the people around you, and maintain a calm, professional state.

You can only leave a first impression once, so it’s crucial to present yourself in the best way possible so you are never forgotten. Use these ten tips to communicate effectively and benefit your career.

When attending a business function or dinner:

1. Surround yourself with people you do not already know. While this may be difficult for those that are shy, putting this weakness behind will enable you to make new contacts in a short period of time, and potentially give you a business lead.

2. Individually introduce yourself to everyone in the group, shaking each person’s hand and giving them the attention you would want to receive.

3. Always introduce yourself by stating you first and last name slowly and clearly, along with your company title. Make sure that the person you are speaking to heard your name, and if necessary, nonchalantly repeat your full name.

4. Shake their hand firmly while making eye contact. A firm handshake is never forgotten, and making eye contact shows you are serious.

5. Repeat the person’s name that you just met. For example: “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Robert.” This will make the recipient feel special, and immediately remember who acknowledged them. Repeating their name will also help you memorize it.

6. Learn about the other person to create a trusted relationship, by letting them speak. Find out what they do and where they are from. Ask them about their past, and what brought them to the career path they are in today. Listen carefully, show them you care, and do not interrupt them!

7. Don’t talk too much about yourself and your business. You can briefly mention what you do, but unless you are asked more by the other party, don’t begin rambling about your great new business or endeavor. It may be exciting, but no one likes shameless promotion!

8. Always carry business cards. You never know who you will run into and when, whether you are eating cheese and crackers, in the middle of a conversation, or in the restroom.

9. Read at least one news article a day. If there is a moment of silence, you can break the awkward pause by bringing up an interesting story you read. This can be about an interesting local story, a TV show, a book, a movie, and more. Note: Steer clear of political news. This is not a good conversation piece, as this can lead to a loud and unpleasant outcome.

10. When introducing a friend or a colleague, be sure to mention their first and last name, along with a piece of information that the recipient may find interesting, such as where they work, or something they have accomplished that is out of the ordinary. This will make everyone feel comfortable and lead into a good conversation topic.