As a professional, you must communicate with people all the time. The following techniques can improve your effectiveness:

• Listen closely to what the speaker is saying.
  
  
• Listen for the main ideas being communicated; don't outline or look only for facts.
  
  
• Identify the filters you have as a listener, and suspend judgment until the other person has finished talking.
  
  
• Jot down notes of significant information, but be sure to explain why you're doing so. 
  
  
• Ask open-ended questions that can't be answered by 'yes' or 'no,' that encourage input. For example, ask the speaker how he or she came to a conclusion, or where to go next with an idea.
  
  
• Don't answer too quickly. Silence allows a thoughtful response.
  
  
• Don't interrupt or do all the talking.
  
  
• Don't state opinions as facts.
  
  
• Use good nonverbal communication that will put the other person at ease. Make eye contact, and nod and smile to support the speaker.
  
  
• Use jargon only when you know the listener understands it.
  
  
• Be honest and respectful when you talk or write to someone.
  
  
• As much as possible, keep your comments constructive. A good question to ask yourself is, "Will what I am about to say help this person?" Performance improves most when specific goals are discussed and set, and least when it is criticized.
  
  
• Keep your writing short, simple, strong and sincere.
  
  
• Plan, plan, plan for communication.

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