IMPORTANCE OF ORAL COMMUNICATION SKILLS

 

In today’s world, the emergence of different forms of technology in media has led to the communication process to take place through different channels like communication apps, teleconferences, video conferences, etc. Earlier, face-to-face meetings and speeches were the only forms of communication. Understanding and incorporating different workplace communication skills has become highly important to succeed in today’s professional life. Effective listening in the workplace is as important as conveying your thoughts while speaking.  

General Communication Skills

The list of communication skills presented below should be helpful in developing proper communication in business, for presentations and also in general.

• Pronouncing the words clearly is an important thing to be remembered. The need to repeat a particular word/sentence affects the flow of presentation.

• To emphasize the importance of a particular thought, words have to be pronounced by changing their tones.

• Avoiding fillers while speaking is necessary. ‘the sound of fillers (‘um’, ‘ah’, etc.) could be irritating for listeners.

• While in a face-to-face communication process, interrupting the speaker is considered a sign of poor communication.

• Careful listening is as important as speaking clearly while in the process of oral communication. It helps respond in a proper manner.

• One should always make an eye contact with the listeners; this way, the attention of listeners is not lost and their interest is kept intact.

• Asking questions in order to obtain information is one of the important aspects. One should keep the questions precise in order to get a clear answer. Same is the case when a person has
to answer a question. Answering the question with correct details and also in quick time is of great importance.

• It is not advisable to carry on the communication process without understanding a particular point.

• In a communication process, body language of a person is considered as important as the spoken words. Body language of the speaker has a great impact on the listener(s). This is because it gives them an idea or indication of the direction in which the communication process is heading. The listener either gets positively or negatively influenced by the body language of the speaker.

Importance of Oral Communication in the Workplace

Oral communication is crucial in the workplace for several reasons:

1.     Clarity and Understanding:

o    Effective oral communication ensures that information is conveyed clearly, reducing misunderstandings and errors. This is particularly important in fast-paced work environments where quick decisions and actions are needed.

2.     Relationship Building:

o    Oral communication helps in building strong relationships among colleagues, fostering teamwork and collaboration. It allows for immediate feedback and the resolution of issues, enhancing trust and cooperation.

3.     Decision-Making:

o    During meetings, discussions, and negotiations, oral communication is key to making informed decisions. It allows for the expression of ideas, concerns, and solutions in real-time, leading to better outcomes.

4.     Conflict Resolution:

o    Conflicts and misunderstandings are inevitable in any workplace. Effective oral communication helps in addressing these issues promptly, reducing tensions and maintaining a positive work environment.

5.     Leadership and Management:

o    Leaders and managers rely on oral communication to inspire, guide, and motivate their teams. Clear and persuasive communication is essential for conveying vision, goals, and expectations.

How Oral Communication Increases Profitability and Bolsters Brand

1.     Enhanced Efficiency:

o    When employees communicate effectively, tasks are completed more efficiently, reducing wasted time and resources. This directly impacts the bottom line by increasing productivity and lowering operational costs.

2.     Improved Customer Service:

o    Good oral communication skills are essential for customer-facing roles. Employees who communicate effectively with customers can better understand their needs, resolve issues promptly, and provide a positive experience, leading to higher customer satisfaction and retention.

3.     Strengthened Brand Reputation:

o    The way employees communicate with external stakeholders, including customers, partners, and the media, directly impacts the brand’s reputation. Effective communication ensures consistent messaging, strengthens relationships, and enhances the brand’s image.

4.     Increased Sales and Revenue:

o    Sales professionals who excel in oral communication can better connect with potential clients, understand their needs, and articulate the value of the company’s products or services. This leads to higher conversion rates and increased sales.

5.     Fostering Innovation:

o    Open and effective oral communication encourages the sharing of ideas and knowledge, fostering a culture of innovation. This can lead to the development of new products, services, or processes that provide a competitive advantage and drive profitability.

Conclusion

Oral communication plays a vital role in ensuring smooth operations, enhancing productivity, and fostering strong relationships in the workplace. It directly contributes to increased profitability by improving efficiency, customer satisfaction, and innovation. Furthermore, effective communication helps bolster the brand by ensuring consistent and positive interactions with all stakeholders.

 

 

August 19, 2024 Tags : Business and Management

Subscribe by Email

Follow Updates Articles from This Blog via Email