Before speaking, consider the objective of your conversation or message details. Write a list of goals for the conversation, such as what do you want to accomplish at the end of the communication. A logical order of information creates a better picture in the listener's mind. Knowing your audience allows the speaker to use language, tone and clarity specific to the listener. Ask questions or relay information with clarity and conciseness. Stop the discussion and ask if clarification is required before moving on. Before presenting a message to a group, rehearse the speech beforehand in front of a spouse or friend. It is easier to receive feedback from one person instead of a group.
Non-verbal communication skills make up a large part of face-to-face communication. Look people in the eyes when speaking. Investigators often consider the avoidance of eye contact as a subconscious lying mechanism. Bob Dick, creator of the public program "Communication," points out specific signals that demonstrate non-defensive, appeasing or threatening communication. Withdrawal during a conversation is demonstrated through mumbling, poor eye contact, a look of apprehension or a posture resembling cowering. By relaying information loudly, holding a strong and tall stature, an angry face expression, a constant stare or threatening gestures indicates an aggressive standpoint. A neutral conversation contains normal relaxed posture, a pleasant tone and frequent contact eye contact. Nonverbal cues present five different roles in verbal communication including accenting, repeating, contradicting, substituting or complementing the message, according to Jeanne Segal, Ph.D., author of "The Power of Non-Verbal Communication and Body Language."
Two non-verbal actions that are often forgotten include touch and space. The way people touch others relays emotion or a message. Softly patting someone on the back versus harshly poking a finger in a person's chest demonstrates two extremely different emotions. The amount of space kept between the speaker and listener offer cues of comfort, defensiveness or anger. Consider personal space when communicating with someone because comfort levels of closeness are individualized.
Listening plays a significant role in communication. Listening involves understanding the message, paying attention to the speaker and clarifying what you heard. Face-to-face conversations require active listening by both the parties involved in the conversation.
When writing a message in e-mails, text messages or letters, specific guidelines still exist for role model communication. Consider your audience's point of view before sending a message. Use proper grammar, punctuation and politeness. Messages communicated through the Internet run the risk of privacy issues or mistakes in who receives the message. Save private or important messages for face-to-face conversations. Emoticons and Internet slang often fill conversations. Use extreme caution when inserting these figures or words within personal communication to avoid misunderstandings. Communication by Internet or email follows the basic rule that using bold font, large font or an exclamation point refers to screaming, excitement or anger. Paying close attention to minor details such as the font size, adding an emoticon or using bold font ensures that communication is clear and direct at all times.