 Communication is one of the most challenging things to master because to communicate effectively you must understand that everyone doesn't receive or process information in the same way. Turner Robbins, an American auto and life coach said, to effectively communicate we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world and use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others. Knowing you understand and accept everyone's differences, you'll become empathetic. That way you can relate with people better because you're putting into perspective what your audience might have been through and how it has shaped their thought process. So to improve your communication skills, there are a few habits you should develop. In this video, I'll share with you 9 ways to be a better communicator. If you're new here, consider subscribing so that you don't miss out on exciting videos like this. 1. Give a valuable takeaway Have you ever spoken with someone for only 5 minutes or so and you feel you've been with them for so long because the conversation was highly beneficial? Well, that's an excellent example of an effective communicator. Whether you're given a talk or conversation with a group, the most important thing is to understand the importance of delivering value. Give people the points that they can take away with, especially if you don't have the opportunity to say much. 2. Make sure you have an understanding of what you're talking about. You don't want to appear as dumb to people because you don't fully understand the points you are trying to drive. I mean, how can you sound persuasive to others when you don't know or even understand the subject? Great communicators show that they are valuable by providing useful information and knowledge about their field or area of expertise. Imagine it this way, if you're only going to give people random information that anyone can quickly get on the internet, why should anyone bother listening to you? Always make sure that in addition to having something valuable to say, it would help to understand the subject properly. 3. Listen more than you speak. You see, a good speaker is first of all a good listener. Shannon L. Alda said, The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn't being said. The art of reading between the lines is a lifelong quest for the wise. In communication, it is much more about listening to the other party than it is about talking. If you understand that, then you are one step closer to becoming an effective communicator. Everyone wants to be heard, including you. However, learning to put others first will help you communicate the right message and when you do, everyone will always want to listen because you'll be addressing what needs to be addressed as opposed to what you think needs to be addressed. Don't get caught up in trying to formulate your best response while the other party is passing across his or her message. Listen carefully to them. The famous Epictetus quote says, We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak. If you learn to listen twice as much as you speak, you'll be an excellent communicator. Effective communication means strongly focusing on understanding what people are communicating with. Otherwise, you'll find yourself arguing and losing focus on the subject of discussion. 4. Communicate body language and pay attention to non-verbal communication. While you are listening carefully to the speaker, use the equally paid attention to your body language. The enormous wealth of information lies in people's body's language. The body communicates nonstop and is an abundant source of information. Body language communicates to others how you are feeling emotionally. For instance, if you lack confidence, your body language will transmit the information to others faster than your words will. Most times, when conversing with people, we pay attention to your body language. Likewise, when people listen to you, they do so with their eyes and ears and pay attention to your posture, hand movement and eye movement as well. For instance, sitting up straight instead of hunching over or widening your shoulders instead of slouching, maintaining eye contact are the likes of some of the ways you can improve your body language and your communication skills and return. 5. Be empathetic. People feel the way they do for a reason and even if you can't feel or react similarly, you should at least acknowledge their experiences and emotions. When you communicate, listen well enough to understand how they feel so that you can connect with them emotionally. Great communicators understand the importance of connecting with others. It helps them trust you better and open up better. Maya Angelou, an American poet and right activist said, People will forget what you said and deed but they will never forget how you made them feel. However, if you are not empathetic, you will never be able to communicate with people on an emotional level. 6. Keep your responses brief. People like the sound of their voices better than others which is why you shouldn't spend forever responding to people. They will quickly lose interest in what you have to say. Short snappy answers that get right to the heart of the issues will help get your point across quickly. 7. Don't be the kind of person that comments on everything. People will respect you more if you have a reputation of stepping in only when you have something valuable to say. You see, it's easy to ignore people who feel the need to put out a word or two on almost every situation. However, for someone who rarely talks, when they do, they catch the attention of nearly all if not everyone in the room. 8. Keep an open mind. To be an effective communicator, you should understand that you don't know it all. Other people's opinions, ideas or suggestions can be better than yours so you have to learn to listen to others and keep an open mind on the conversation. 9. Be positive. Everyone likes to have people who are full of positive energy around them so bring out the positivity in you when speaking with people. You can smile at them when speaking or nod from time to time in affirmation of what they are saying. It will please them to realize that they are making sense to you. There you go. Thank you very much for watching our videos. If you liked this video, watch more videos on our channels and subscribe. We love you.