When it comes to making a major purchase, I like to do my research. Being a “see it, feel it, touch it” kind of person, that means going to the stores and talking to salespeople.
After reading the reviews and narrowing down my choice to two possibilities, the deciding factor in a recent purchase was the confidence in the product communicated by the salesperson. His confidence and engaging communication style gave me confidence in my decision.
(If you’re curious, this recent purchase was the electric pool vacuum in the picture above.)
Listeners gain a lot of information from what you say and how you say it. And what you don’t say but you communicate with body language is also important.
Confident communicators have a good knowledge base and are able to convey it in a way that engages the listener. They listen well and respond appropriately. Their body language communicates interest, attention, and self-assurance. Confidence lends credibility to what is said, and listeners respond in a positive manner.
5 Ways To Communicate Confidence
Preparation: Knowing the information you want to relate is crucial. Consider the words to use that will allow you to convey facts and details with certainty. When you use a lot of verbal fillers (e.g., uh, um, like, you know) or qualifiers such as probably, maybe, or I guess so, you will appear less knowledgeable and confident.
Appearance: Even before you say your first word, your listener is forming an opinion of you. Professional attire and a neat and well-groomed appearance make a good first impression. Together they indicate that you take pride in yourself and what you do. That instills confidence in your listener.
Body Language: Your listener wants to feel that you are interested in them. By squaring your shoulders to the person with whom you are speaking and engaging in eye contact, you will demonstrate interest and attention. Standing tall with your shoulders back also conveys self-assurance. A smile will make the listener feel comfortable – and chances are they will smile back, further confirming their confidence in you.
Vocal Quality and Tone: For a message to be effective, not only must it be heard, but the tone of voice must match the words you are using. Words spoken in a monotone are less likely to influence and persuade. Engage your listener with your enthusiasm. Speak clearly, and vary your pitch and intonation to match the emotion of the message.
Listen: Be a good listener, and respond to both the verbal and non-verbal messages of the person you are speaking with. Just as they are watching and listening to you, you must do the same. Is their body language conveying interest and attention to what you are saying? Does their tone of voice match the words used? Are you responding appropriately to their comments and questions, or just pushing forward with your message? If your communication is truly responsive, you will gain the confidence and trust of your listener.
Do you communicate with confidence?
Whether you are in an executive leadership position, or preparing for a job interview, confident communication is essential. It may be the determining factor in making a sale, getting a promotion, or maintaining a satisfied customer.
Are you prepared? Does your body language display self-assurance? Do you show interest by maintaining eye contact and listening? Is your speech clear, and does it convey the emotion of your message?
If you need assistance evaluating your communication, I can help. Contact me at annemarie@ispeakclearly.com.
