Maybe you should just stop talking? The top 10 communications mistakes

Entering my commercial grade test kitchen, I try to select the freshest ingredients to concoct a delectable lesson of practicality and positivity.

But sometimes, just sometimes, folks, I detour into the small, cramped pantry down the hallway where the shelves are stocked with canned beans and potted meats, food items that you might not enjoy eating, but will nourish you just the same.

It’s from that pantry that, today, I bring forth the following nuggets of reality. Communication bites from someone who has been around the block a few times in the high-stakes world of the executive chef... er, I mean coach.

Whether you’re chatting with colleagues over coffee or holding court at the best table in the most expensive steak house in town, your communication game needs still to be on point. So, today’s menu serves up the top 10 communication mistakes you need to avoid – like drinking orange juice immediately after brushing your teeth.

​Mistake #1: Rambling on and on

Let me paint you a picture. You’re in a meeting, and your colleague starts talking. And talking. And talking some more. Pretty soon, you’ve lost track of what they’re saying, and you’re counting down the minutes until you can escape.

Sound familiar? Rambling is the enemy of effective communication. Whether you’re delivering a presentation or holding an informal conversation with a co-worker, get to the point and keep it concise. Remember, brevity is the soul of wit.

Instead of launching into a lengthy monologue about your weekend, try something like: “I had a great weekend hiking in the mountains. How about you?”

Short, sweet, and to the point.

​Mistake #2: Failing to listen

If you’re constantly talking over people or tuning out their ideas, you’re shooting yourself in the foot. Listen up – you might just learn something.

Instead of interrupting your colleague mid-sentence, try listening to what they have to say and responding thoughtfully.

Who knows, you might discover a brilliant idea you never would have thought of on your own?

​Mistake #3: Using jargon like it’s going out of style

Every industry has its own jargon. But unless you’re speaking to a bunch of rocket scientists, leave the technical mumbo-jumbo at the door.

Instead of peppering your presentation with industry-specific acronyms and buzzwords, try explaining concepts in simple, easy-to-understand language. Your audience will thank you.

​Mistake #4: Forgetting your audience

Are they senior executives, junior hires or a mix of both? Tailor your message to fit the folks in the room. One size does not fit all in the world of communication.

Instead of delivering a cookie-­cutter presentation to every audience, take the time to research your listeners’ interests, concerns, and preferences. Customise your message to resonate with them on a personal level.

Mistake #5: Neglecting nonverbal cues

Are you guilty of slouching in your chair or avoiding eye contact? Not good. Pay attention to your nonverbal cues – they can make or break your message.

Try sitting up straight, maintaining eye contact, and using open body language to convey confidence and engagement.

​Mistake #6: Overlooking tone and delivery

What you say is important. But how you say it is a ­game-changer.

Pay attention to your tone and delivery. A little charisma goes a long way in the world of communication.

Instead of delivering in a dry, monotone, try injecting energy and enthusiasm into your delivery. Use vocal inflections, gestures, and facial expressions to keep your audience engaged and entertained.

Mistake #7: Ignoring feedback

Whether it’s constructive criticism or a pat on the back, feedback is your best friend. Embrace it!

Try actively soliciting input from your colleagues and stakeholders. Take their suggestions to heart and use them to improve your communication skills.

​Mistake #8: Being afraid to get personal

We humans like to feel valued and appreciated. So, don’t be afraid to get a little personal in your communication. Remembering someone’s name or asking about their children or recent holidays? The little things count.

Take time to build rapport and forge genuine connections with your colleagues. Show interest in their lives outside of work and make an effort to remember personal details about them.

​Mistake #9: Overusing tech at the expense of face time

Put down the gadgets and have a real conversation once in a while, will ya?

Instead of hiding behind email, instant messaging, or video calls, try scheduling regular face-to-face meetings with your colleagues. Nothing beats the personal touch of a real-life conversation.

​Mistake #10: Failing to adapt and evolve

Last but not least, let’s talk about adaptability. The world is constantly changing, and so should your communication style.

Stay flexible, stay open-minded, and for the love of yummy food everywhere, don’t continue eating the same old boring communication meals. Try something new so you wont get stuck in your old ways.

Instead of clinging stubbornly to outdated communication methods or strategies, try embracing new technologies, trends and best practices. Stay curious, stay hungry, and never stop learning.

So there you have it, friends—my top 10 communication mistakes you need to avoid.

Oh, and next time you’ve brushed your teeth in the morning, drink some water first before the OJ.

You can write to Gina London care of SundayBusiness@independent.ie