4- Do not make repeated, nervous like gestures. When speaking to someone it’s important to use body movements but never fast and repetitive ones (picture someone who is nervous while public speaking; this is exactly what you're NOT aiming for).

5- Create your own personal space. Make sure you let others know you have your own personal space and do not let them walk all over you. Note: you never want to invade someone else’s personal space.

6- Dedicate all of your attention to person you are speaking with. Do not constantly look around as if you are uncomfortable or not interested.

7- Make sure to emphasize all of these tips when you meet someone new. First impressions count for a lot. You want to make best impression you can.

Most people are unaware of way they are projecting themselves because in general, people will detect body language signals subconsciously. Make an effort to apply all seven of these tips and people will react differently when you are speaking to them.

Daddy. When will God give me my special plant?”

Special plant?!? One word, just one word changed much of my message to my daughter.

When I think of examples of bad communication, I think of newspaper advertisement that read;

“For Sale - beautiful Braille bible. Must SEE to appreciate”

They missed their target audience by one word. SEE.

I have heard radio ad for a miracle drug that promises to grow hair. The company is so proud of this product that they guarantee to double amount of hair you have or your money back.

They never once tell me exactly where this hair will grow… what if they double hair in my ears? Not very convincing is it?

My son gave me an example of miscommunication recently. At end of a long road trip he yelled up from back of van;

“TURN DOWN THE RADIO! I’M TRYING TO SLEEP!”

Surprised at his behavior, I turned back to him and said;

“STEVEN KADE BRUMMET! You had better remember that you are talking to your DADDY!”

Of course I expected him to humbly rethink his position and answer me differently. Instead he cocked his head to one side, looked me kind of funny and said;

“DADDY! TURNDOWN THE RADIO! I’M TRYING TO SLEEP?”

I missed it. I failed in my communication with my son.

To improve your key relationships with clients, employees, children, students spouses and more, you must improve your communication skills and understanding. But, good communication is easy. Isn't It??

Steve Brummet is a communication expert, writer and speaker who works with all types of organizations to increase understanding of communication styles.

Better communication can help you and your organization reduce stress and increase productivity. For more information on one of our workshops, please feel free to call or write.