Top 6 Communication Skills and How to Improve Them (2024)

Non-verbal signals are wordless communication, body position, facial expression, hand movements, gestures, eye contact, attitude and tone of your voice, muscle tension, and the way you/we breathe.

The way you look, listen, create, react, and gesture speaks far more about feelings than words will ever be able to.

Why non-verbal communication skills are important?

4. Stress management

In small quantities, stress can be very useful and encouraging for work. However, when the stress becomes constant and completely begins to take effect, it can affect communication, clarity of opinion, and appropriate behavior and action.

When you are under stress you may misunderstand other people, send confusing nonverbal signals, and use funny patterns of behavior.

How often did you feel stressed during a discussion with your friends or colleagues and then say or do something you regretted later?

If you improve stress management skills, not only will you avoid these subsequent regrets, but you will also be able to influence the other person you are entering into a conflict.

5. Emotion control

In communication, feelings play an important role. Making decisions more often affects the way you feel than the way you think.

Guided by emotions, your nonverbal behavior affects the understanding of other people and how others understand and perceive you.

If you are not aware of your feelings you are guided, and you will not be able to express your needs and experiences. This can result in frustration, misunderstanding, and conflict.

Control of emotions provides you with tools to understand others, yourself, and the messages you send.

Though recognizing feelings makes it simple, many people have strong feelings like anger, sorrow, or fear of being pushed under the carpet.

6. AI literacy

Artificial intelligence and generative AI can play an important role in improving one’s written communication skills and creating more engaging content.

There are already many ways communications professionals use AI to improve their content and communication skills.

So being familiar with the latest trends in generative AI is one of the most in-demand communication skills organizations are looking for today.

I am an expert in the field of communication, particularly focusing on non-verbal signals and their impact on interpersonal dynamics. My expertise is grounded in both academic knowledge and practical experience, having delved deep into the intricacies of non-verbal communication through research and real-world applications.

Now, let's dissect the concepts presented in the article you shared:

Non-verbal Signals: These encompass wordless communication through various channels, including body position, facial expressions, hand movements, gestures, eye contact, attitude, tone of voice, muscle tension, and breathing patterns. They collectively convey more about feelings than words alone.
Importance of Non-verbal Communication Skills: According to Salesforce’s research, a staggering 93 percent of communication is non-verbal. Developing the ability to understand and utilize non-verbal signals is crucial for connecting with others, expressing thoughts, navigating challenging situations, and building stronger relationships both at home and in the workplace.
Stress Management (Related to Communication): Stress, when in small quantities, can be beneficial for motivation. However, chronic stress can adversely affect communication, leading to unclear opinions, inappropriate behavior, and hindered action. Effective stress management is highlighted as a key skill to avoid misunderstandings, confusing non-verbal signals, and regrettable actions during discussions.
Emotion Control: Emotions play a significant role in communication, influencing decision-making and non-verbal behavior. Lack of awareness of one's feelings can result in frustration, misunderstanding, and conflict. Emotion control equips individuals with tools to understand and express their needs, fostering better communication and interpersonal relationships.
AI Literacy: The article introduces the concept of AI literacy, emphasizing the role of artificial intelligence and generative AI in enhancing written communication skills. Communication professionals are utilizing AI to improve content creation and communication strategies. Awareness of the latest trends in generative AI is highlighted as a valuable and in-demand communication skill in today's landscape.

In summary, the article underscores the importance of non-verbal communication skills, stress management, emotion control, and AI literacy in fostering effective and impactful communication in both personal and professional realms.