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The old adverb “A picture is worth a thousand words”, holds very true if one wants to communicate a thought by speaking or writing. A good picture, like a thought is detailed and specific - it captures the essence of the painters thoughts on to a canvas. This is a key to conveying your own thoughts and ideas effectively.

It is always a thought that we try to convey, but when it comes to communicating them we encounter major stumbling blocks. The first step is to be very clear in our mind and then to speak that thought simply and effectively. You need to describe precisely what it is you want to communicate, or else the image that one creates can be as fuzzy as our thoughts. Clarity in thought naturally projects into clarity of speech.

The following example illustrates this point and you can judge which of the two conversations makes for a lasting impression. Consider who would you rather be, Ashwin or Suresh:

Ashwin’s conversation

Suresh’s Conversation

Both Ashwin and Suresh might be equally good at collating the material for the newsletter and getting it ready on time. It was the impression they created through the conversation that is going to make a lasting impression with the boss. Quite clearly if the boss had to choose between them for a promotion, Suresh would be his most likely choice. And the single largest reason for the decision would be his ability to communicate well.

Sometimes we know what we want to say but we do not have a clear picture in our head. We begin with saying something and then just end up rambling on. This makes it very difficult for the listener to get a grip on what we are trying to actually focus upon. Practicing to take the time to think before we speak is the first step towards effectively translating thoughts into words.

• Here are a few tips that one should keep in mind while speaking:
  
• Think before you speak.
• Form a clear picture in your head of exactly what it is you want to express.
• Remember simplicity increases effectivity, so use language that can be easily understood.
• Be sure of the words you choose to describe what you want to say. It is important to label the objects when describing something. For example if you require a red pen then be specific rather than asking someone to fetch you only a pen.
• Be clear of what you want to convey and speak one thought at a time. This will help the listener stay in focus.
• Be objective - stating too many things or jumping from one topic to another only creates confusion in yours and the listeners mind.
• The importance of the tone of voice cannot be undermined. We very often do not realize this but the nicest words said in an irritable tone can create a very different impression.
• Facial and body movements give away a lot. Holding your hands clenched tightly while you talk, gives away all the nervous tension that you might be trying to hide.
• Be sensitive to the others time, this will also help you not to lose focus.
  

I think Man is a creative being and we can all master the art to good communication, as in the words of Oscar Wilde:

“The artist is the creator of beautiful things...
The artist can express everything,
Thought and language are to the artist instruments of an art....”

Graphic done by Sophiya