Updated Content 01/29/2025
Communication is an essential part of day-to-day life for anyone, regardless of career path. Strong communication is an important soft skill that can help improve your professional life and personal relationships. Read on to learn Boardman Training Center’s top four tips for improving your communication skills! 
Why is body language important when communicating?
Creating a positive first impression is vital in all aspects of life, including professionally. Many people use body language without realizing the message they may be conveying. Using nonverbal signals like crossed arms, frowning, and lack of eye contact could all be off-putting to the person you speak with. Instead, make eye contact as you speak and listen, smile, and maintain good posture without the conversation. These minor adjustments can be the difference between a positive and negative impression.
A handshake is a form of body language that can also affect the person you speak to. According to this article on LinkedIn, a handshake that is too strong can appear arrogant. At the same time, a too weak handshake can be perceived as timid. Finding a happy medium between the two can create a positive impression and build a trusting relationship.
How is active listening effective in communication?
It is natural to listen, but it takes practice to listen actively. Active listening is a skill that allows you to focus your attention solely on the person you are listening to rather than letting your mind wander to an argument or response.
A practice that can help you develop active listening skills is to ask open-ended or probing questions. These questions require an explanation beyond a simple yes or no. Asking these questions shows the person you are listening to that you are engaged and interested in what they are saying and that your attention is focused on them.
Why is empathy important in communication?
Many people are naturally empathetic, and using empathy in communication can help you strengthen the connection with the person you’re speaking with. Empathy is crucial because it can be challenging to build a trusting relationship without relating to the person you’re speaking to.
It is essential to manage your emotions during conversions. Offering unwanted advice or sharing your own experiences can be off-putting or overtaking the conversation. Instead, try practicing active listening and looking at the situation from a different perspective, only offering solutions if the person you’re speaking to wants your opinion.
Why is it important to think before speaking?
Using intentional language can help you be clear and concise to understand the person you are communicating with best. Processing and gathering your thoughts is essential during both face-to-face and online communication.
You must be cautious when communicating through text or email since the person reading your message cannot see your body language. This can cause misunderstandings and lead to poor communication. Formulating and checking your message for misspelled words and grammatical errors can help you be clearer in virtual communications.
When speaking in person, it is also important to filter your thoughts. This allows you to take a moment to process the conversation and think about what you would like to say and how the person you’re speaking to could interpret your words. You will have more meaningful conversations by combining these thinking skills with active listening, empathy, and body language skills!
Now you can improve your communication skills!
By following these tips, you can develop soft skills that will help you become a better communicator! By practicing these skills with a friend, you can gain the confidence to apply them professionally.
If attending a school that recognizes the importance of skills like communication is vital to you, then Boardman Training Center could be a good fit for you! BTC students will receive personalized personal and career development assistance with our career and academic support services.
We want to see you succeed in your healthcare career! Get started on your educational journey today by requesting information.