Communication Skills: Face-to-Face

We’ve all had what seems like millions of face-to-face conversations, but how much do we know about them in a business context? And, can we increase our communication skills to get more out of these conversations?

Today, we’ll examine three elements of face-to-face conversations that affect our results: giving and getting feedback through body language; monitoring voice tone and pitch; and the environment.

One of the great advantages of face-to-face business conversations is the opportunity to watch the body language. How does the other person hold herself, how do her body positions change as the conversation goes through difficult subjects? 

As the conversation progresses, watch for warning signs. Arms crossed over the chest is a classic sign of non-acceptance; in other words, she doesn’t like what you’re saying for some reason. Watch too for a hands on hips pose, which can indicate she plans to vigorously reject your position when it’s her turn to speak.

The same holds for voice tone and pitch, which gives us early warnings about the fate of the ideas we’re suggesting. A classic voice tone to watch is the rising voice, which can indicate tension, anger, or distress of some kind. If you get that kind of signal, it’s time to back off and wait for another opportunity.

No doubt you’re familiar with the importance of warm and cool tones from the other persons, but let’s remember it just the same. Judge whether or not to proceed by the tone you’re hearing in response to your opening remarks.

The third issue revolves around the environment in which we’re holding the conversation. A room that’s cold, for example, may make the other person fidget because they’re cold, and not because they disagree with you.

And, ask any salesperson about the differences offices make. In some offices salespeople feel at home and comfortably make their pitches; in others, they know they need to begin by breaking the communication chill the room induces.

Reading body language, voice tones, and the physical environment are three key ingredients in improving communication skills in the business world. As you enhance your skills in these areas, you’ll enjoy greater personal and organizational success.