You have all seen the videos – ‘How to professionally say this…’ they are a hit all over social media and they offer some amazing – and funny – insights into how to assert your thoughts in a way that respects all parties, although some are snarky and just for fun. In the realm of effective communication, knowing what to say is undeniably crucial. As a personal and professional development coach I’ve been asked time and time again how to say one thing or how to express another and I have come to realize that merely focusing on the words you speak is merely scratching the surface. 

What I have also come to the awareness of is that the individuals who ask these questions are really asking, ‘how can I empower myself to speak up?’ They want to know how they can respect the person they are speaking to, but also respect themselves. It is honestly an amazing way to advocate for yourself – to develop your communication techniques and seek out a communication coach, and one that I truly enjoy. 

I would like to assure anyone on a journey to improve their communication that  true empowerment and confidence stems from discovering and honing your unique voice.

Throughout my career in public relations, I’ve frequently coached clients on various aspects of communication, from speaking with elegance and grace to adeptly navigating conflicts. Yet, it’s my deep understanding of emotional intelligence that has led me to a fundamental insight: finding your voice necessitates more than just stringing together the right words.

While having a guide for crafting your communication can be helpful, genuine transformation occurs when you cultivate a mindset that craves meaningful communication. The best communicators aren’t just adept at delivering messages; they excel in making others feel heard, seen, and valued. They forge connections, engage their audience, and convey their messages with clarity and impact. 

In situations fraught with conflict, thriving communicators don’t recoil; they lean in. They listen actively, refusing to be intimidated or defeated by discord. Instead, they gain confidence in these situations knowing conflict is a fuel for collaboration, embodying an openness that is vital for effective communication. The true communicator knows – conflict is an opportunity for growth, true understanding, and connection. A cornerstone of our human experience. 

To cultivate this mindset and elevate your communication skills, focus I suggest you include an aspect of curiosity on three essential aspects:

Your Self-Awareness

The journey begins with knowing yourself as a communicator. What are your strengths and weaknesses? What do you hope to achieve through your interactions? Whether it’s fostering connections, demonstrating leadership, nurturing friendships, or fostering understanding, clarity about your communication goals is key.

Developing Active Listening

Effective communication is a two-way street, requiring attentive listening as much as articulate speaking. Instead of merely waiting for your turn to respond, strive to understand the perspectives and emotions of others. Genuine communication necessitates acknowledging and validating the experiences and viewpoints of those you engage with.

Your Openness

Before you can truly listen to others, you must open yourself to their thoughts and ideas. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to dismiss differing opinions or perspectives as irrelevant or unworthy of consideration. However, such closed-mindedness stifles empathy and growth. Embrace each interaction as an opportunity to broaden your horizons, learning from diverse experiences and viewpoints.

By embracing these principles of self-awareness, active listening, and openness, you’ll not only enhance your communication skills but also deepen your connections with others. Ultimately, it’s this authentic engagement and empathy that will propel your communication to new heights, enabling you to truly find and amplify your voice in every interaction.

If you are on a journey towards improving your communication in your personal or professional life, I would love to hear from you! What helps empower you to find your voice and communicate your thoughts, ideas, and dreams. If you are interested in starting this journey I offer many videos on my Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn that speak about communication, etiquette, personal branding, identity development, fashion and style and I also work with corporations and personal clients to help them holistically develop their image, behavior & communication. 

If you aren’t already subscribed to my newsletter, I often include many additional insights and new subscribers receive a complimentary personal branding workbook! 

Stay Elegant,

Taylor Elizabeth