Communication tools for effective communication

1. Know what you want to say

What is your message? You have to have total command of your message. If you walk into a situation at a loss for words it's because you didn't plan what you need to say.

2. Say it

Never leave a business meeting without delivering your message. Don't let unexpected questions get you diverted from your message.

3. Know when to shut up

Deliver your message and then stop talking. If you were clear the other person will be smart enough to make a decision.

4. Make your message clear and concise

The first tool is about knowing your message. This one is about knowing how to say waht you need to say clearly. You could try delivering your message into a voice recorder and then playing it. How do you sound? Do you ramble?

5. Make your message to, for, and about people

Ask yourself "How can I make this time valuable for the listener?". If you can offer them something valuable they will like your message. What's in it for them is much much more important than what's in it for you.

6. Make your message affirmative

Talk about what you are, not what you're not. When someone asks "Are you a pyramid scheme?" You say something like "I am an honest business person and this is an honest business opportunity...." instead of "No, we're not a pyramid scheme. I'm not in jail. I'm not doing anything illegal."

7. Boost your message by illustrating, quantifying, and comparing

Illustrate with examples. Mention how many examples there are. Show how your product (or whatever) is better than others.