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Speaking effectively is only one half of communicating well. Good communication requires understanding by the listener of the speaker's intended message. So the onus is on the speaker to ensure that the message they deliver is both heard and understood. How can this be achieved? Create an environment where it is physically possible for the listener or audience to actually hear what is being said, and ensure that conditions are as comfortable as possible. Build rapport with the listeners through the careful use of vocabulary avoiding too much jargon or over-use of long or complex forms of words. People are known to operate in three modes - visual, auditory or kinaesthetic and generally favour one. In fact most people - about 80% - are visual, so choosing words which reflect this mode will help to build rapport. Try to see what visual people are saying; hear what auditory people are getting at, and feel what kinaesthetic people mean. It's usually clear from the words that people choose when speaking or responding which mode they favour. Also consider the way in which you speak: careful matching of the tone, delivery speed and volume to that of your listener will help their comfort factor. Take care not to overdo or copy their accent or you may sound like you are a caricature of them. Use your body language - generally open and relaxed - to signal your ease and comfort with them; they in turn will feel easier and more comfortable with you.
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