PR practitioners are masters at communication and maintaining solid interpersonal relationships. All aspects of a practitioner’s lifestyle require attitudes and techniques that aid in communication with clients, colleagues and social situations.
As future public relations professionals, we must be aware of the potential interferences (static) that can change our entire message. Here are a few:
Language
The words we use are our livelihood. Make sure your message is clear, to the point and jargon-free. Each reader or listener will interpret your words differently.
Body language
This is a big one. It is as subtle as keeping your hands in your pockets and as obvious as a firm handshake or posture. If you maintain good and confident posture when speaking, your audience will take notice and respond positively. However, if you exude too much confidence, it may be misinterpreted as cockiness and will turn your listener off no matter what you say.
Assumptions
Never, never, never assume your audience is on the same page as you are. No two people think alike and there are no exceptions. Even though they are your audience, you must allow them to walk with you along your opinions, views and solutions. If you inform your audience then your message will be crystal.
There are many more communication tips and rules than the ones listed above. The Web site below gives incite on communicating effectively. It has tips on listening, giving and receiving feedback among others.
http://web.cba.neu.edu/~ewertheim/interper/commun.htm#active
What problems have you faced when trying to communicate? How did you solve them?
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