by Sarah O.
In a generation where communication has reached its highest peak, in what is now a more mainstream society, more and more people are seeing the greater benefits with the introduction of business communication – especially in the commercial industry. Companies from various sectors are using this approach through social media platforms and work-related applications, that are proving very effective in reaching new audiences. LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and many others are ever popular – showcasing business achievements, international progression and let’s not forget…the odd selfie here and there!
Social media platforms in business communication expands business awareness on a worldwide scale. It reaches out to areas to market company objectives and amazingly provides an added benefit of immediate customer communication. Consumers are targeted and can readily learn more about businesses and their favourite brands. Now we understand its use and popularity, in a nutshell though, can we explain – what is business communication?
Business communication is a shared process that involves one or several bodies or organisations that share information or messages – one that all parties together can understand. Examining its performance however, what would you say is the key to making business communication effective? Have a guess! It all relates to interfacing connections. The coming together, the blend of characteristics and expertise all combined that join individuals with such abilities, sparking a creative and inspiring fusion.
Think for a moment about how this strategy would be of advantage to your business? Do you crave success? Do you want to thrive? Here is how you grab it!
Presentation
Preparation in advance for your presentation is vital when it comes to business communication. You need to know what you need to say and own it. What does your company specialise in? What makes you stand out? How would this then, be of advantage to the other party you are liaising with? Don’t be afraid to be different! This is just the beginning, the non-verbal part of communication that prepares you for this step. Including a plan of action and how you will go about implementing your message to benefit your audience, will carry weight to your presentation and will make the best first impression. This will add great value to your business and your skills and will most importantly have a high impact on your listeners.
Clear & Straight-Forward Language
No long-winded dialogue needed – the executing of your proposal will require using language that appeals in every aspect. What may sound inviting, may not be achievable, so keep in mind of the need to be reasonable and give attention to your system of words when communicating. There can be barriers when it comes to this ability and your aim is to break them down. Using clear and concise language enhances your message and deters any distractions that may come to your listeners.
An important aspect of using concise language involves ensuring that your listeners know why they should hear your message, aside from what you have to say. Fill all those present with information that they understand and that clearly details their role and why their contribution is important. This will then mesh with your overall message and you’ll reach your desired effect.
Approach
The biggest say so in history to use in your favour! Confidence – How you approach your listeners! Your confidence when communicating should generate truth, as it serves to provide credibility to your work and to your business. Mind thy false tongue…smile and project yourself professionally and speak of what you know. Your confident approach becomes a reflection of yourself and your business, here are a few thoughts to consider: -
Motivation – The message or content you provide should motivate your listeners; you are approaching potentials with a goal to inspire action. Use this chance to showcase any benefits, to demonstrate targets and to instill curiosity for possible future developments.
Educate – Have in mind the importance of enlightening your audience. Statistical information goes a long way, especially when listeners can see numbers or facts. It is important then, to make sure that tools are on hand with these detailed results, that they can then evaluate to solidify their decision. Emphasise critical points that you think would make a deeper impact on your listeners and that will initiate an interest from their perspective.
Methods
What will you use to communicate? The technological world continues to advance with people across the globe communicating via text, phone, email - you name it! And this avenue continues to appeal to businesses as its global reaching capacity serves as a great advantage. Once you have determined your choice words, you need to examine what method would be more suitable to convey to your listeners. Here are other methods to examine, on a more local business arrangement: -
Team Building Exercises – This is an all too common exercise that many use to ‘break the ice’. It can be quite nerve-wracking to communicate with other business members, so this is a suggestion that might suit your needs. This will bring an air of ease to those involved and will promote your business as one that has a great interest in long-term progressive working relationships.
Suggestion Boxes – This can be very effective, as it already tells your audience that you are willing to take criticism and additional recommendations. Suggestions from your audience will allow them to give their ideas, as to what they believe would elevate your approach.
Listening
This can be a communication killer, if not reciprocated. DO NOT forget to listen to those you are addressing. If you want to be heard – listening is at the heart of attention. This is a skill that promotes productivity, as it builds harmony and an understanding between you and your audience. When this happens, it allows your audience an opportunity to provide feedback to you which can only become an asset attainable, if listening is implemented. Listening, in the business world, fosters good working relationships between you and your audience which then improves the dynamic of the setting.
By applying the following, you are enabling an opportunity to engage your audience and accomplish your business goals. Your business relationships are strengthened, and you develop communication skills that will carry you up the ladder of success.