How to Communicate Effectively

 How to Communicate Effectively. Communication makes the world go round. On a smaller level, communication, or being able to communicate effectively, is what gets you through each day, in both your career and personal life. Here's how to make sure someone understands what you say.

Steps

1. Clarify ideas in your mind before you attempt to communicate them.
2. Organize your thoughts.
3. Think clearly about what you are trying to get across. Do not stray from that topic. Stick to the issue you have chosen to address.
4. Be clear about the purpose of the communication. For example, its purpose could be to inform others, to obtain information or to initiate action. It could be as simple as telling a cab driver where you are going, or as complicated as explaining to your significant other why you are leaving him or her.
5. Articulate your words. Do not mumble. Look into the other person's eyes if possible.
6. Have the other person repeat what you have said, in his or her own words.
7. Thank the person for his or her time, and for listening.