Verbal communication in detail

Positive examples

• Speak clearly, concisely and audibly
• Adjust level of language to suit the audience
• Use a variety of tone and inflection in speech in order to emphasise points
• Speak when the situation merits it
• The outcome is that others understand your point of view and ideally change theirs and accept your ideas

Negative examples

• Speak indistinctly or too quiet
• Speak too quickly or too slowly
• Use inappropriate language which is too technical, or uses jargon
• Your contribution dominates the discussion

Developing verbal communication

• Seek opportunities to gain experience in addressing internal and external groups
• Join a local discussion group/debating society
• Observe effective communicators and assess what makes them good at it
• Make a recording on video or audio of a meeting or discussion and then analyse the communication of those involved
• Increase self-confidence by gradual increase in status of audience and subject complexity

Developing verbal communication in others

• Ask the individual to attend meetings and obtain feedback from colleagues
• Ensure that they fully understand the subject before starting a formal conversation or discussion
• Involve the individual in situations where success can only be achieved by clear, concise oral communication
• Suggest joining local discussion groups/debating societies
• Encourage the employee to consider the other person's point of view when planning communication
• Observe professional communicators and analyse why they are good communicators
• Make a recording on video or audio of a meeting or discussion and then analyse the oral communication of those involved