Communication Skills Lecture Notes

Importance of Communication

• Being a confident communicator sets you apart from 90% of peers
• Statistically linked to:
  • Better job opportunities
  • Higher salaries
  • Attraction quality partners
• Current trend: Demand for good communicators outweighs supply under 25

Personal Anecdote

• The speaker recalls being school captain at age 12
• Early experiences in communication included:
  • Encouraging classmates
  • Dating another school captain
• Developed anxiety and jealousy due to insecurities
• Anxiety negatively impacted communication skills

The Gunk Analogy

• Pipe: Represents inability to speak
• Tap: Represents quality of communication
• Water Quality: Affected by anxiety and fear of judgment
  • Blockages in communication can hinder expression

Overcoming Communication Barriers

1. Identifying Root Causes
   • Understand where communication fears originate
2. Reducing Anxiety
   • Acknowledge that nobody is perfect in communication; everyone feels anxious
   • Less anxiety equals clearer communication

Four Strategies to Improve Communication

1. Intention Behind Speaking
   • Focus on connecting with the person rather than seeking validation
   • Positive intentions lead to better conversations
2. Read More Books
   • Expands vocabulary, enhancing communication skills
   • Improves mental rehearsal of language
   • Choose books that benefit future self
3. Enhance Appearance
   • Improving looks can boost confidence
   • Simple actions:
     • Wear well-fitting clothes
     • Maintain good hygiene and grooming
     • Prioritize health and diet
4. Practice Speaking on Camera
   • Record yourself as a way to practice communication
   • Improves tone and confidence over time
   • Suggested practice: Speak to the camera for 5-10 minutes daily

Conclusion

• Improving communication skills can profoundly impact personal and professional life
• Practice and consistency are key to becoming a better communicator