If you want to become a much better communicator, here are three essential tools to master: Listen, Repeat and Reflect.
Number 1. Listen.
Listening doesn’t mean waiting for your turn to speak! Communication is a two-way street. Half the battle is learning how to really hear, process and respond to what others are saying.
Number 2. Repeat.
Learning to paraphrase is an important skill. It means repeating what others have said to you in a different way, so that you clarify your understanding and stimulate further discussion.
Number 3. Reflect.
Too many people open their mouths and speak without thinking. Before you let the words escape, think carefully. It helps if you slow down to make sure you give appropriate consideration to what you are about to say.
Learning the rules for effective communication can take some time and effort. But it will be time well spent.
If you want to avoid putting your foot in it, learn to listen, repeat and reflect.