What are Communication Skills? | Importance, Types and Ways to Improve it

Summary

In this session, Surbhi discusses the critical role of communication skills in the business world, emphasizing their importance across professional, social, and personal spheres. She outlines key skills such as public speaking, presentation, persuasion, active listening, and non-verbal communication. Surbhi also provides practical tips for improvement, including preparation, mindful non-verbal cues, active listening, clear and concise speech, constructive criticism, and regular practice. The video aims to equip viewers with the knowledge and tools to enhance their communication abilities.

Takeaways

• 😀 Effective communication is crucial in all aspects of life, including professional, social, and personal spheres.
• 🏢 According to a 2018 survey, verbal communication skills are the most sought-after in the business world.
• 🗣️ Communication skills involve conveying information clearly and understanding others, using words, language, signs, and symbols.
• 🤝 Good communication helps in building trust, strengthening professional relationships, and advancing in one's career.
• 🎤 Public speaking skills are essential for engaging and effectively communicating with an audience.
• 📊 Presentation skills are not just about creating slides but also about delivering them in a way that captivates the audience.
• 🧠 Persuasion skills involve influencing others' thoughts and opinions through logical and convincing arguments.
• 👂 Listening skills are fundamental to being an effective communicator, involving active engagement and understanding.
• 📝 Oral and written skills are important for clear and concise communication, avoiding misinterpretation.
• 🤫 Non-verbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions, plays a significant role in how messages are perceived.
• 📞 Phone skills are essential for professional communication, requiring a warm and clear tone when interacting with others.
• 🔁 Giving and receiving feedback is a valuable skill that demonstrates open-mindedness and a willingness to improve.
• 💪 Confidence is key for making a good first impression and is important for effective communication during interviews and meetings.
• 🤝 Respect in communication involves allowing others to speak without interruption and responding appropriately in group settings.

Q & A

What are communication skills and why are they important in the business world?

Communication skills are the ability to convey information, thoughts, and ideas effectively. They are crucial in the business world as they help in understanding and being understood by others, building trust, strengthening professional relationships, and improving job performance and career advancement.

According to the 2018 survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, what is the topmost required skill in the business world?

The topmost required skill in the business world, according to the 2018 survey, is verbal communication skills.

What does effective communication involve?

Effective communication involves conveying and receiving information, interacting with others, transmitting messages without misinterpretation, and using words, language, signs, and symbols.

What are the components of communication skills?

Communication skills include listening, speaking, writing, observing, and empathizing.

How do communication skills help in building trust and professional relationships?

Good communication skills help in understanding people and situations better, making one's presence felt in discussions or meetings, and strengthening teamwork and cooperation.

What are the top communication skills required by employers?

The top communication skills required by employers include public speaking, presentation, persuasion, listening, oral and written communication, non-verbal communication, phone skills, and giving and accepting feedback.

Why are public speaking skills important in the business world?

Public speaking skills are important as they demonstrate how effectively one can communicate and engage with an audience, requiring confidence, enthusiasm, and the ability to connect with listeners.

How can one improve their listening skills?

One can improve their listening skills by paying close attention to the speaker, removing distractions, and asking questions to show interest and ensure understanding.

What is the significance of non-verbal communication in effective communication?

Non-verbal communication, including body language, gestures, posture, eye contact, and facial expressions, is significant as it often speaks louder than words and can convey a lot about one's overall behavior and attitude.

What tips are suggested for improving communication skills?

Tips for improving communication skills include preparing in advance, being mindful of non-verbal cues, practicing active listening, being clear and concise, seeking constructive criticism, and practicing communication habits such as recording daily videos.

How can one practice communication habits to become a better communicator?

One can practice communication habits by recording a 10-minute video daily on any topic while looking at the camera, which helps in observing and improving one's communication skills.