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In this two part article we are going to rethink verbal communications. Clear cut and concise communications are essential in the business world, There are four essential guidelines that should be remembered: Speak so you can be understood; When and how to use Slang or metaphors, Using “bad” language and using word properly in business. #1 Speak so you can be understood. It is important to speak at the proper speed. Not too fast or too slow. If you speak too fast, people will misunderstand you. If you speak too slowly, it just gets on everyone’s nerves and they will want to “pull” the words out of you. It really corrupts communications. You must also make sure that you “project” your voice properly so it reaches the person(s) to whom you are talking. If you speak too softly, people will start “guessing” what you are saying because they get tired of saying “excuse me?” Or after a while they will just pretend they understand you. This is a real problem in clubs and in busy restaurants. Bottom line, if you cannot be heard or hear the other person, you are not communicating! In addition, if you have a thick accent, control it. Studies show that people don’t like to communicate with other people who have strong accents because it takes a lot of work listening and once again, they start to “guess’ what is being said. #2 Slang or metaphors. Metaphors are a figure of speech in which a word or phrase that ordinarily designates one thing is used to designate another. For example, instead of saying, “now it’s Bills’ turn.” You might say, “The ball is in his court.” Metaphors (or slang) can be used to help make a point or to make speaking more colorful, but you should not use them too often, especially in business. Also, if you’re working with people from other countries or cultures, they might misunderstand or may find them embarrassing. Slang can be very regional, sports related, culturally centered or industry related. Some slang changes monthly while others are constantly being modified. It can be difficult to keep up with, especially in the music industry. Bottom line, it is OK to use slang or metaphors, just use them properly and don’t overdo it. The key is to never cause any form of miscommunication when using metaphors or slang in business. In the next part two of this two part article we will discuss using bad language and using word properly in business. Jim Stedt is a partner at The Business SoftSkills Company (GetSoftSkillsNow.Com) located in Santa Ana, California. They provide job readiness and workforce success videos for education, business, prisons and individual use. Training is available online, on DVD, or through an affiliate program. These products are the most complete and concise soft skills training packages now available for the price of an average college textbook.
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