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Do You Need A Communication Makeover?

One Expert's Advice

By Lorna Garano

We see makeovers all the time, and we're often amazed at the transformation that comes with a new wardrobe and hairdo. Yet there's one crucial piece missing, says renowned image consultant Janice Hurley-Trailor, who has worked with everyone from Fortune 500 executives to recent college grads entering the workforce.

How you communicate is essential to creating a professional, dynamic image. "Even the best dressed, best groomed people can compromise their image if they don't communicate well," says Hurley-Trailor. In her practice she's given hundreds of clients a communication makeover, because she says, "how you communicate is as important to your image as how you dress and carry yourself."

3 TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION:

"IN MY OPIN-" Interrupting is one of the most common communication flubs that erodes your image. Let someone else finish their sentence and their thoughts before you say anything. Insert a pregnant pause before you answer someone's question and you'll effectively communicate that you really are listening and gaving ample consideration to your response.

LET THE FOCUS BE ON SOMEONE ELSE. It's natural to want to talk about and express yourself, but give others the chance to do that too. When someone tells you about their experience resist responding with a story about yourself. Instead get truly interested and curious about what they are saying by asking a follow-up question. This helps to ensure that you will in turn be listened to and it will build goodwill among the people with whom you regularly communicate.

RECOGNIZE THE THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS THAT DRIVE CONVERSATION. It's tempting to go with your gut and react on impulse to what someone is saying especially if you disagree. This can ratchet up the emotion, which can then hinder clear and honest communication. Think first about what thoughts and emotions might lay behind the statements. Taking just a few seconds to do this will allow you to answer calmly and maintain a professional demeanor.
Janice Hurley Trailor

Janice Hurley-Trailor is an image expert with 25 years of experience, and is based in Scottsdale. She has worked with professional practices, Fortune 500 companies and government agencies.