COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Personal Development Skills

Road To Excellence Level I
Session 2
The moment you open your mouth to speak, you are going to
disclose something about yourself. How you phrase your question,
give an opinion and your manner of speech reveal almost all there is
to know about you

So think before you speak. Never open your mouth before you form
that thought. If you speak softly, you are judged to be shy; if you
speak loudly, you are aggressive; if you speak in a moderate tone,
you are confident etc.
Communication Skills
Stages of Communication
Stage 1: THE SENDER
How a person communicates is determined by: education, self
image, background and emotions
Stage 2: The Message
This is the link between the sender and the receiver. The
message is passed from one to the other by means of a
channel. A channel used for delivering a message may be
written, verbal, non-verbal or a combination of all 3
Stage 3: The Receiver
•Improve the exactness of your
communication
•Think about what you intend to say before
you open your mouth
•Plan it out
•Think about ways you can elaborate on
•Practise the art of skilful repetition
•How many different ways can you say the
same things?
•Be responsive to the feedback you get and
do plan for changes in your message
SPEAK FOR YOURSELF

Try these eight ways to

communicate effectively when
it matters most

Have you ever walked away

from a conversation and
suddenly thought of a much
better way to present your
ideas?

Have you ever felt afraid to

speak up because you are
afraid of what others might
think?
Your communication skills can mean a difference
between success and failure, not only in getting your
job done but also in standing out from the crowd and
getting noticed.
CONSIDER YOUR REAL GOAL

THINK THROUGH YOUR OBJECTIVE

Do you need to persuade or influence?
Are you trying to build a relationship
with your manager?
When you know about your real
objective, you will be able to tailor your
message appropriately
KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE
It is essential to know whom you are talking to.

Always adapt your message to fit your audience

PLAN AHEAD
Identify your main goal and consider how you will
back it up with facts, examples and details
STAY FOCUSED
When you are making your point, do
not get distracted, you have a goal, so
stick with it. Listen carefully to what is
being said.
BE STILL
Do not sway when you are standing, do not use your
hands wildly, and do not fiddle with notes or papers. Just
sit or stand still so people will focus on your message
MAKE EYE CONTACT
If you really want to connect with people when you speak, look
them in the eye. Should hold someone’s eyes for the duration of
at least three words when you speak.
PRACTISE
Always practise what you are going to say
BE AUTHENTIC
Say what you believe and be genuine. Find a way
to make the message uniquely yours