Practice speaking confidently and assertively from "summary" of 101 Ways to Improve Your Communication Skills Instantly by Jo Condrill,Bennie Bough
To improve your communication skills, it is essential to practice speaking confidently and assertively. This means speaking with conviction and assurance, without hesitations or doubts. When you speak confidently, others are more likely to listen to what you have to say and take you seriously. Assertiveness, on the other hand, involves expressing your thoughts and opinions in a clear and direct manner, while also respecting the thoughts and opinions of others.
To practice speaking confidently and assertively, start by paying attention to your body language. Stand up straight, make eye contact, and use gestures to emphasize your points. This will not only make you appear more confident but will also help you feel more confident. Additionally, pay attention to your tone of voice. Speak clearly and at a moderate pace, and vary your pitch and volume to keep your audience engaged.
When speaking confidently and assertively, it is important to use language that reflects your self-assurance. Avoid using qualifiers such as "I think" or "I believe," as these can undermine your credibility. Instead, state your opinions and ideas directly, without apology or hesitation. Remember that it is okay to disagree with others respectfully, as long as you do so in a confident and assertive manner.
Practice speaking confidently and assertively in various situations, such as during meetings, presentations, or social interactions. The more you practice, the more natural it will become, and the more confident you will feel. Remember that confidence is a skill that can be developed over time, so be patient with yourself and keep practicing. By speaking confidently and assertively, you will not only improve your communication skills but also increase your self-confidence and credibility in the eyes of others.