Effective Communication Skills in Business

Business communication can be written and oral. But, as we have all learned in grade school, the type of communication has to be formal. However, grapevine is a very common style of alternate communication, as well. Here are a few tips that one can follow to maintain efficient communication skills in a business setup. While these tips for business communication may be commonly known, seldom do people follow them effectively for communication skills in business.

Useful Tips for Efficient Business Communication Skills

Tip 1
In business, everything has to be legitimate, it's a fact. Hence it is very important to maintain written proof of all communication and correspondence. Like, in case you are planning on ordering a few sample pieces of a certain commodity, you need to make sure that you send in a written request for it. Yes, often in business, simply oral requests work wonders, however, the written word acts as an empirical proof. As such, even though the deal was cracked in person orally, it is required for you to send in a formal written confirmation of it as well.

Tip 2
Listening is very important in business. One needs to know the difference in hearing and listening. You need to listen, pay attention and retain each word and expression that the opposite person may express. Do not be biased while listening. This gravely hinders the communication. Be attentive and observant. This can be advantageous when you need to remind a person of the interest he had shown earlier or something similar that may work for your benefit. Be a good listener to be listened to. If you give attention to another's word, they will respect you for it, hold you in high esteem, and listen to what you have to say with a positive mind.

Tip 3
When you are trying to show positive response, don't fret over being direct. It is better to let the person know that you agree before they think that you don't. However, don't react till you are completely sure of your answer. If you are undecided about agreeing to certain terms and conditions, then you can avoid giving a response until you are sure. Not only will this help you make better and more informed decisions, but will also let the other person know that you cannot make impulsive decisions. In the business world, vulnerability can be a major reason for downfall, however, competition being aware of vulnerability, is a bigger reason. So, make sure you react when you are sure, do not let trivialities allow you to change your mind.

Tip 4
When engaging in written communication with a certain party, stick to unambiguous and definite language. Keep the same policy for oral communication too. Avoid using ambiguous terms and make sure that you are definite in what you are saying. Also, make sure that you use easy language. Business communication thrives on good communication and not good vocabulary. Avoid the use of bombastic words and stick to simple and everyday terms. This way you don't intimidate the recipient into having a negative feedback about you, plus you make him feel comfortable. This will make you more endearing to him.

Tip 5
Use the industry grapevine to your advantage. Every industry has a grapevine. This grapevine is the source for confidential and timely information. You can plant a few of your "own" people in the grapevine. This can help you stay updated with the latest news and gossip in the industry. More so, you can keep an eye out for possible business, market conditions and several other details that one cannot control otherwise. Another way to use the grapevine to your advantage is to spread the word that you wish to spread. If you wish to let the market believe that you are going for a massive expansion, spread the word through the grapevine. Trust me, it is faster and much more profitable. Another way of having a controlling hand on the grapevine is that in case someone is bothering to spread negative rumors about your business, you can know about it before it spreads too far and wide. You can take preventive and controlling measures in time this way.

Apart from the above, there's a cheat code that can help you to be more perfect than others. All are aware about the standards, "Be formal", "All telephone conversations should be confirmed via email", etc. These 5 simple-to-follow tips will help you gain control over the effectiveness of your business communication. This is where I sign off! All the best!