Good Communication is Critical

Building a successful career is highly dependent upon being an outstanding communicator. Frequently, jobs are won and promotions awarded to the best communicators, not necessarily to the most qualified candidates based on experience, education and training.

A good communicator is much more than a good presenter or conversationalist. Communication includes listening, writing, observing, restating, clarifying and understanding. Body language, appearance, voice tone and responsiveness also factor into communication. On a daily basis, how we communicate shapes our careers. Some of us are lucky to be born good communicators. The good news is that we can all learn to be excellent communicators. That's important because well-rounded communication skills can prevent many career-limiting problems. In fact, the majority of truly successful people have mastered the art and craft of good communication. Types of communication Verbal communication is the most frequently used and most important communication vehicle. How you talk and interact with others can make or break your career. Here are other key elements of effective communication: Listening. Ever wonder how three people can listen to the same directions or opinions and only one understands exactly what the speaker said? It happens all the time. Some poor listeners tune out after a short time, focusing on what they want to say next or planning how to accomplish what was requested before the speaker finished. They fail to restate what they heard or ask for clarification on gray areas. Consciously listen all the way to the end of a speaker's statement; restate and confirm what you heard and your plan of action. In doing so, you can dramatically reduce mistakes and wasted time. Keep in mind that every organization values and respects good listeners because they understand what needs to be done. Presenting. Making a presentation in front of a group can be a terrifying experience. But you need to master presentation to advance into senior-level positions. You may want to consider public speaking courses and organizations such as Toast Masters, which have helped many nervous speakers overcome their fears. You can also get good practice by presenting informally to small groups at work or at home. As your skills improve, so will your confidence. Writing. Written communication is also vital for career success. Documenting your thoughts clearly and concisely in writing has become increasingly important because so much business is now conducted via e-mail. A written document is living proof of what you have requested, committed, planned, etc. A poorly written document reflects poorly on the author; the opposite is true of a well-written document. In fact, a well-crafted memo or report may get you noticed or give you the recognition you deserve. Understanding. Do you truly understand the written corporate culture of your organization? A person who likes short, bullet-point memos will not respond well to a 10-page report. When starting a new job or getting a new boss, make a point of asking how information should be presented. Interpreting. Listening well is a critical component of good verbal communication, but just as important is observing other individuals' body language and expressions and responding appropriately. Body language, voice tone and facial expressions all impact verbal communication. If a person looks angry and speaks in a loud voice, the perception will be that he or she is angry-even if the person's words are not angry. If someone speaks in a monotone voice and doesn't seem "up," the perception will be that the speaker is not interested or enthusiastic. Comfort factor Good communication takes many forms as outlined above. Nonetheless, whether you are communicating to a large group of people or are in a meeting with a boss, your comfort level in the environment is critical. For example, let's assume you have a bad back and you've been invited to sit on a hard chair. If you're uncomfortable, move to a more comfortable chair, even if it may seem embarrassing to switch seats in the middle of a meeting. In a more global sense, when speaking to a large group, be honest and informative, be a good listener, provide feedback and, most important, be comfortable and allow others to enjoy your style of communication. Betsy Hersher is founder and president of Hersher Associates Ltd., a health care consulting and executive search firm located in Northbrook, Ill. She is an expert in organizational assessments, position design and executive recruitment and retention. Linda Hodges is executive vice president of Hersher Associates Ltd. She is also an expert in organizational assessments, position design and executive recruitment and retention.