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HOW TO IMPROVE COMMUNICATION (HINTS 2 "4)

Use Only Words  Phrases, and Illustrations You Are Sure Will Be Understood
Most of us recognize that we should avoid using jargon or technical language if we wish to communicate with others. Also, most of us can easily recognize jargon used by others. After all, it is all those words, phrases, and acronyms we don't understand. Yet most of us find it very difficult to recognize our own jargon. Our words, phrases, or illustrations aren't jargon; they aren't too technical - at least not to us. But therein lies the problem. We aren't speaking or writing to "us." We're speaking and writing to "them." And to "them," too often the words we use are jargon. Your English teacher probably told you to write short, declarative sentences if you wanted to get your message across. The same goes for speaking. Constantly ask yourself, "How can I simplify this point and make it more direct?" If the content of your message is technical, ask yourself, "How can I present the same information in a non-technical way?"

Avoid Emotion-Laden Terms
As we said previously, "meaning is in people, not in words."  And people react emotionally to their experiences. Most people associate at least some words with prior negative experiences.  When you use such words, those negative experiences become associated with your message, and in some cases, overpower your message. Obviously, you can never know every possible word or phrase that might conjure up negative associations, but the more you know about your audience, the better off you are. Ask yourself, based upon what you know about your audience, if there are any words or phrases you should avoid.

Tell the Whole Truth and Nothing But the Truth
Your credibility is critical to your ability to communicate. If they can't trust you, they just won't listen or they will misinterpret what you say. If you can't divulge information because it is sensitive or confidential, say so. Lack of trust destroys communication.

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