Foundations of Effective Speaking

One of the most essential skills employers look for in the employees is their ability to communicate thoughts and ideas with clarity and objective. In a recent survey by Bloomberg, communication emerged as a 'highly desirable but less available' skill among students along with creative thinking and risk-taking. 
 

With this segment, let's discuss about oral communication.

But, what is oral communication? 

Oral communication is a process in which one individual verbally interacts with another and a transfer of information takes place. However, in oral communication, you need to follow certain etiquette in order to have a healthy conversation and convey your message.

In recent times, we have completely forgotten the relevance of oral communication. But as discussed previously communication (specifically oral communication) has significant pertinence at the modern workplace. Here's an image that depicts the same:

In this session, our subject-matter expert, Rakesh, will explain to you the importance of effective oral communication and its different aspects. Let's get started.

You are now familiar with the different aspects of oral communication and their significance.

Many people are hesitant about addressing a group of people. They are more comfortable in other forms of communication that do not necessitate physical interaction with the other person, such as letters and electronic messages. However, oral communication lies at the heart of corporate communication. You will have to communicate orally most of the time with your boss or colleagues.

Therefore, it is extremely important to master the art of oral communication. Let's summarise the key takeaways from the video given above: 

• Elements of oral communication
  • Public speaking: It refers to speaking in front of an audience.
  • Speaking in meetings: It refers to speaking in a formal corporate meeting.
  • Speaking in informal settings: This refers to having a talk with your friends or family.
• People come together and talk, listen to and observe each other in a modern workplace. Therefore, effective oral communication becomes necessary here.
• Social judgement, glossophobia, stammering, negative body image, etc. are barriers to effective oral communication.
• It is extremely important to be mindful of non-verbal cues during oral communication.
• Oral communication is not just limited to the English language. English or any language is merely a tool for communication. There are people who do not speak good English but are great communicators.
• There should be a balance between presentation and good content in any oral communication.

In the next session, you will learn about building your confidence in order to speak fluently in front of an audience.

Additional Resources:

• Daniel Kahnemann TED Talk on the riddle of experience vs memory explores how 'self-awareness' and 'remembering selves' view happiness differently.  It has profound implications on our mental and spiritual well-being.