Before You Speak, Be Sure You’re Ready to Listen

Source Article: (accountingWEB, 26 August 2010)

Everyone (even accountants) need to update their presentation skills. The best presenters watch their audience to gauge whether their message is being received and to monitor their engagement level.
Our View: There is a slew of research on the importance of oral and written communication skills (e.g., leaders who communicate change effectively can improve their direct reports’ performance by as much as 29.2%). Communication is always a two-way street, and you need to make yourself open to inputs (silent or spoken). By asking for feedback and building in moments for audience interaction, you can determine if your messages are being received and understood.
How We Can Help: Find advice on how to personalize your communication style to boost team performance (and avoid sounding like a tyrant at work) and tips for articulating your point, writing e-mails that get read, and avoiding common writing errors.