Did you know 89.7% of opportunities are given to people based on their ability to communicate? And this applies to all areas of your life – your business, career, relationships, everything. Whether you need to seal the deal, close a sale, maintain a relationship, or just make a point, having good communication skills is critical. Your communication skills are KEY to your success regardless of whether you’re delivering a speech to thousands of people, in a boardroom with just 5 people, or have a chance meeting in an elevator with just one important person.
Lots of people lose amazing opportunities simply because they’re too nervous or aren’t properly prepared. Early in my career, I experienced it myself! When I first launched my fitness apparel line, I had an incredible opportunity to work with a HUGE fitness brand. I thought the product would speak for itself, and when I went into my big meeting, I wasn’t fully prepared for the size of the opportunity in front of me. I got nervous, sweaty, shaky…and I wasn’t able to communicate what people needed to know. So, I lost that opportunity.
But I learned from my mistake, and you can, too! I realized every opportunity I had was reliant upon my ability to communicate confidently, so I invested in my business and in myself. I attended seminars and trainings and even hired a speaking coach to help me get better. I’ve found that being a confident communicator starts with three things, and I want to share them with you today: being prepared, making your point, and engaging your audience.
3 Basics to Becoming a Confident Communicator
#1 – Be Prepared
If you have a big opportunity coming up, research, research, and research some more! The more you know your audience and what it is you want them to do, the better off you’ll be. You also want to be prepared for those random, unplanned opportunities. Do you have an elevator speech? What is it that you do, and can you sum it up in just a few sentences? Be ready to pitch whatever it is you do on a whim, because you never know when you’ll find yourself standing next to someone in an elevator that could change your life!
#2 – Make Your Point
What’s the one thing you want your audience to leave knowing? What is it you want them to do? Focus on that point and gear your speech toward that outcome.
#3 – Engage Your Audience
To keep your audience’s interest, you must relate to them and their wants and needs. Find a way to make a connection with them and hit on these things. You will engage them and ensure that they are receptive to your point.
Now, this is just the beginning! There’s so much more to being a confident communicator. There are specific steps you can take to prepare, calming your nerves, formulas for effectively making your point, and getting people to “yes.” I couldn’t cover it all in just one article, so I created this free video series for you to get my exact formula on mastering your message! Click here to get access to my free video series now. Start working on these skills today! You can apply them to all areas of your life and have incredible success in creating the life you want and deserve.
Thanks Chalene! This is an area I have always had an issue with. I am always terrified of public speaking but I know that I have to overcome this fear because it is hindering my progress in all areas of my life. I am preparing to watch your video now and I know that I will walk away with a wealth of information.
This will help you! You can learn skills to become a better communicator, and it will impact your life in so many ways! Take lots of notes!
i have poor communication skills, which hindering my abilties in all aspect of my life hope i can find ways to improve. need that knowledge of effective communications skill. mainly i lack confidence.