You’ve probably heard the phrase “communication is key,” but that’s not just about how you interact with other people.
You also need to be able to express yourself and where you’re coming from clearly and concisely, and that’s sometimes easier said than done. If you sometimes struggle to get your point across or feel nervous about voicing your thoughts, opinions, and boundaries, this is for you. Here are some tips that can help you feel more confident in sharing your POV with other people — you can do it!
1. Know what you want to say before you say it.
Take a moment to organise your thoughts before speaking — it helps you avoid rambling or getting off track. It also gives you a chance to choose your words more carefully, making your point clearer from the start. You might even want to jot down key points if you’re preparing for an important conversation.
2. Bring your own perspective and feelings to the forefront.
Start sentences with “I think” or “I feel” instead of making general statements. It shows you’re speaking from your perspective and makes your points more personal. It also helps avoid sounding like you’re speaking for everyone or making universal claims. Using “I” statements can also make your message less confrontational and more open to conversation.
3. Be specific and avoid vague language.
Instead of using general terms, give concrete examples or details. This makes your message clearer and easier for other people to understand. It also shows that you’ve thought about what you’re saying and aren’t just speaking in generalities. Specific examples can help illustrate your point and make your message more memorable.
4. Make sure you throw in some active listening, too.
Pay attention to what other people are saying and respond directly to their points. Doing this shows you’re engaged in the conversation and helps you come up with more relevant responses. It also helps build a back-and-forth dialogue rather than two people just stating their own views. Active listening can lead to more productive conversations and deeper understanding between people.
5. Speak slowly and clearly.
Take your time when speaking — it gives you a chance to think about your words and helps people understand you better. It also makes you sound more confident and in control of what you’re saying. Speaking at a measured pace can help reduce nervousness and allow your listeners to process your message more easily.
6. Make eye contact.
Look at the person you’re talking to because doing so shows confidence and helps you connect with your listener. It also helps you gauge their reactions and adjust your message if needed. However, be mindful not to stare intensely, as this can make people uncomfortable; natural, intermittent eye contact is best.
7. Use body language to support your words.
Stand or sit up straight, use hand gestures, and keep an open posture. These non-verbal cues can make your message more powerful and show that you’re confident in what you’re saying. Just be careful not to overdo it or let your gestures distract from your words. Your body language should feel natural and complement your speech, not overshadow it.
8. Avoid filler words.
Try to cut down on “um,” “like,” and “you know.” These words can make you sound unsure and distract from your main points. If you need a moment to think, it’s okay to pause briefly instead of filling the silence with these words. Embracing silence can actually make you appear more thoughtful and confident.
9. Be assertive, not aggressive.
State your opinions clearly, but respect other people’s views too. This balance helps you express yourself without shutting down the conversation. It shows that you’re confident in your ideas but also open to conversation. Remember, being assertive means standing up for your rights while respecting other people’s right.
10. Practise, practise, practise.
The more you speak up, the easier it gets. Look for opportunities to express yourself in different situations. You can start with small, low-pressure moments and work your way up to more challenging conversations. Consider joining a public speaking group or taking a communication class to get more structured practice.
11. Know your audience.
Adjust your language and examples based on who you’re talking to. This helps ensure your message is understood and well-received. It also shows that you’re considerate of the people around you and able to communicate effectively in different contexts. Understanding your audience can help you anticipate questions or concerns they might have.
12. Be open to feedback.
Listen when people respond to your ideas. It can help you improve how you express yourself. Being receptive to feedback also shows that you’re confident enough to consider other perspectives and potentially adjust your own views. Remember, feedback is a tool for growth, not a personal attack.
13. Use simple language.
Avoid jargon or complex words when simpler ones will do. This makes your message clearer and more accessible to a wider audience. It also prevents you from hiding behind fancy language and forces you to really understand what you’re trying to say. Clear, simple language often has the most impact.
14. Stay on topic.
Stick to the main point you’re trying to make. Going off on tangents can confuse your listener and dilute your message. If you find yourself straying, take a moment to bring the conversation back to your main point. Having a clear structure to your thoughts can help you stay focused and on topic.
15. End with a clear conclusion.
Summarise your main points at the end of your conversation. This reinforces your message and leaves a lasting impression. It also gives you a chance to clarify anything that might have been misunderstood during the conversation. A strong conclusion can tie everything together and make your overall message more memorable.
