It’s never too late to learn and develop new skills, including communication skills. While some people are naturally more talkative than others, communication is a skill that can be learned and improved upon. Here are some tips that can help:
- Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice communication, the easier it will become. Start by making small talk with people you encounter throughout the day, like your barista or a coworker. As you become more comfortable, challenge yourself to initiate conversations with new people.
- Listen actively: Good communication isn’t just about talking; it’s also about listening. When you listen actively, you show interest in what the other person has to say, and you can respond in a more thoughtful and engaging way.
- Join a public speaking group: Groups like Toastmasters are designed to help people develop their communication and public speaking skills. By joining a group like this, you can learn from others and receive feedback on your own communication style.
- Read and watch examples of effective communication: Observe how others communicate effectively in books, articles, videos or podcasts. Listen for the techniques and tactics used by speakers to engage their audience and get their message across.
- Set goals for improvement: Identify specific areas where you want to improve your communication, such as making eye contact or speaking with confidence. Set measurable goals to work towards and track your progress.
Remember, it takes time and effort to develop new skills. Don’t be too hard on yourself, and keep practicing. You’ll see improvement over time, and your efforts will pay off.
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For further discussion on public speaking, speech development, communication skills and Toastmasters, visit the Live For Excellence Book Store for the following publications:
Blow Your Own Horn!: Personal Branding for Business Professionals
Power Networking For Shy People: How to Network Like a Pro
The Power of Persuasion: Mastering the Art of Influence
The Power of Promotion: Online Marketing For Toastmasters Club Growth
The Savvy Emcee: How to be a Dynamic Master of Ceremonies
Working With Words: Adding Life to Your Oral Presentations
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Rae A. Stonehouse is an author, speaker, and self-publishing consultant dedicated to helping others embrace constant improvement and overcome challenges. With over 40 years of experience as a Registered Nurse in psychiatry and mental health, Rae brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for self-development to his writing and presentations.
As a 25+ year member of Toastmasters International, Rae has systematically built his communication abilities and self-confidence to share his insights as an author and speaker. His self-help books and personal development presentations aim to have conversational one-on-one connections with readers and audiences.
Rae is known for his wry sense of humor and sage advice delivered in a relatable coaching style. After four decades as a nurse, Rae has rewired rather than retired, actively writing and pursuing public speaking. He strives to share lessons learned to help others achieve personal and professional growth.
To learn more about Rae and his approach to constant improvement, visit his website at Live For Excellence Productions or to learn more about his publications visit Live For Excellence Store
