Professional Speaking Mistakes

Whether communicating with a client, boss, or speaking in the conference room,  professionals who need to get their point across in a rush may sabotage the purpose of their communication.

Rushing is just one of the ways speakers can submarine their  point and persona, and by slowing down, taking a breath and moment to consider what they are about to communicate will help save and even improve their reputation down the line.

Common Speaking Mistakes Professionals should Avoid

Slow Down

Often times, a speaker will rush into a topic without considering exactly what must be said, and more importantly, what should not. These boundaries are established through knowing the receiver of the message and whether or not they are in need of the information being provided. Before opening your mouth, consider your audience. Keeping it simple and straight to the point will help you send a clear message.

Be Confident

In the age of political correctness, many speakers have a desire to apologize or speak in a ‘wishy-washy’ tone in order to not offend anyone who might be listening. I must admit even I find myself apologetic at times, to stay politically and/or culturally correct — I am working on it!

This sends a message of a lack of self-confidence, translating into a lack of confidence from the audience. When speaking, be sure of yourself and project your information expertly. You won’t offend anyone by speaking to the point.

Don’t Be a Parrot

According to Barbara Pachter in her article, 6 Common Speaking Mistakes Professionals Make, mimicking what your listener has just said as a way to confirm your understanding may bring trouble depending on the setting. In a one-on-one situation this can work when done sparingly.  However, in a group setting it can be viewed as annoying and that you are trying to “steel the show.”  When you are in a group and someone else is speaking, don’t diminish your “voice” by constantly reiterating what the person next to you said, as this demonstrates an inability to think for yourself.

Being the One with All the Answers

Know when to let someone else take the spotlight for a while. Passive aggressive behavior, even if done innocently, can cause friction in your communication and others to tune you out. Constantly correcting another speaker in an attempt to shift the focus back to yourself will do nothing more than illustrate your own weaknesses.

Allow others to collaborate with you and provide alternative ideas, concepts and such. By doing this, you will be able to create a stronger chain of communication and help to further the goals of the group. In addition, this comraderative process helps strengthen your business relationships.

In general, the most important tip is to stop and think before you speak. Those few moments will allow you to collect your thoughts and help you determine the best way to deliver and communicate them.