Verbal communication consists of four basic parts: Words, sound, language and speaking. To be an effective communicator, you must be able to take these four parts and use them in a powerful manner.
Communication is designed to interact with other people. From the time that we are children, we begin by producing basic sounds; we learn how to take those sounds and form the words we need to communicate with those around us. We use verbal communication to talk to others, to express our thoughts and opinions and to persuade others. Communication is a part of our lives each and every day and we need this skill to do so many things in our life.
Public speaking can happen in your personal and professional live. If you watch the news you've seen politicians and entertainers speaking to the public. This could be in the form of a speech or a presentation. Public speaking can also be impromptu, which means that it can happen without any given notice.
This is why verbal communication skills are vital because you never know when you'll be called on to speak. It's not always planned ahead of time. If you are asked to speak in public and are given notice the first thing to do is to pick the topic that you speak on. Draft an outline of your speech. You want to be sure to list the main points that you want to cover in your speech. Review the outline to see where you need to make changes. Then write the final draft of your speech. The key to speaking is relaxing and practice.
Many public speakers have said that one proven way to practice is to stand in front of the mirror and rehearse the speech as if you were standing in front of a live audience. Public speaking is simply having a conversation with others. So relax, breathe and just talk to you audience.
While speaking is just a conversation with others, being casual in the business setting can be detrimental. With anything but especially in business, first impressions are important. The wrong statement coming out of your mouth can send the wrong signal and there isn't always a chance to make things right.
You don't always have the chance to plan ahead what you're going to say but you can mentally prepare yourself to deliver the best response possible no matter what the situation. You need to make sure to tailor your response and the style in which you deliver it to the situation and the surroundings.
So in the business setting be sure to remember where you are, think mentally about what you're going to say, be aware of who your audience is and be aware of the persons body language and facial responses so you can be sure that the message you are delivering is getting across.
The tone of your voice will also determine how effective the delivery of your message is. It doesn't matter how many times you have written your draft. It doesn't matter how many times you have practiced in front of the mirror if the delivery fails due to your tone. What is the setting in which you're speaking? This is important because your tone will match that environment. If you're given a presentation, then your tone should be authoritative and commanding. If you're delivering a comedic speech then your tone should be light-hearted and fun. Your tone is just as important as what you say.
Becoming an effective verbal communicator is not impossible. It just takes being aware and practice.