How to make your communication flawless

Being able to communicate your ideas, suggestions and opinions to others in your personal and professional life is a skill that should be practiced every day. The ability to communicate is something that should be continuously developed. When you communicate with confidence and power, the better the outcome will be and you will also achieve the results you desire. Here are some communication tips to practice and apply everyday to communicate more effectively:
1. Before you speak, think.
Thinking before you speak can help avoid misunderstandings that could have been avoided. Before you speak, know what you want to say, and what you want to accomplish from it. Keep the conversation focused to one topic at time. Don't move onto another topic until you have finished with the first topic.
2. Don't do all the talking, try to listen as well.
Being a good listener is the best way to be a good communicator. During a conversation take turns talking. When it is your turn to listen give the other person your undivided attention without interrupting. Show the other person you value and care what they have to say. When you do not interrupt and listen attentively to the person they most likely will do the same when it is your turn to do the talking.
3. Ask questions.

Ask open-ended questions, which require more than just a "yes" or "no" answer. This will give you more insight into their thoughts and feelings and what they are really trying to say. Ask for clarification, if you are not clear on a point they are trying to make or instruction they are trying to relay. Then, restate what they have said and ask them to verify that it is correct. If you have a question and do not ask, how do you expect to ever know the answer?
4. Lessen distractions.
Try to conduct the conversation in a quiet location with minimum distractions. Give the other party your full attention by turning off your cell phone or pager. When there are other conversations going on nearby, do your best to ignore them and focus on the conversation you are having. Politely excuse yourself and return as quickly as possible if an unavoidable interruption occurs.
5. Be aware of your body language.
During a conversation, maintain eye contact, and keep good posture. Don't fold your arms tightly or turn your body away from the person if you want the other person to know you agree with them. To show silent agreement, try to match their body positioning. Studies show that 93% of communication is non-verbal, so you want to make sure your body language is sending the right message because if there is any discrepancy, your body language is more likely heard than your words.
6. Avoid audible pauses.
A conversation does not need to have every second filled with sound. Using sounds like "ah", "er", "um",and words such as "like" and "you know" throughout a conversation obscures your message and reduces your credibility. Try using sentences that are shorter or pause using silence instead of sounds. Be aware of when you continuously use words such as "like" and "you know" during a conversation. Make a conscious effort when you are speaking not to use those words. Be very familiar with the topic that you are talking about can also help. Don't sound rehearsed but practice what you want to say.
7. Be aware of your volume and tone
The volume and tone of your voice often reflects how you are feeling. Try to always keep your voice calm and soften your tone during a conversation, even if the conversation has turned into a disagreement.