With the continued growth of communications technology, face to face communication has become somewhat neglected.  However, verbal or face to face communication is still a powerful tool for communication. It has more impact than, for example, email or text messaging. In this regard, it is pertinent to highlight some tips for successful verbal or face to face communication.

1.         Tone of Voice

Your voice is a particularly powerful communications tool, especially in situations where people can’t see your facial expressions or body language, such as over the phone. Your voice should express emotion and emphasise your message.  To captivate your listeners, you should speak in a clear, warm and controlled tone of voice. If people like your tone of voice, you will find that people are more willing to listen and respond to what you say.

2.         Confidence

Public speaking, particularly to a large audience can be a daunting task. No matter who the audience is, it is vital to always be confident. If you are hesitant or unsure of yourself, your audience may be put off.  By being confident in yourself, you lend credibility to what you say and will be more likely to gain the confidence of those listening to you. However, being overconfident or arrogant may put your audience off too, so aim to be honest, warm and friendly, and to always keep eye contact and speak directly to your audience.

3.         Clarity

Verbal communication, just like any other form of communication, requires clarity. It is extremely important to be clear about what message you are trying to convey. Avoid being verbose or redundant; make sure your messages are not confusing or garbled. Don’t use vague or ambiguous language, and get straight to the point. Knowing what message you are trying to get across will not only boost your confidence, but ensure that your communication is crystal clear.

4.         Facial Expressions and Body Language

In face to face communication, a message is conveyed not only by words, but also by facial expressions and body language. A smile, a frown, a raised eyebrow and a yawn all convey emotion, attitudes and therefore information. Similarly, slouching, fidgeting and crossed arms may speak volumes. When communicating verbally, it is therefore crucial to be aware of your facial expressions and body language.

 For more on verbal communication tips visit: http://www.eruptingmind.com/verbal-communication-skills/

Twitter is a “micro-blogging” platform and is currently one of the world’s largest social-networking sites. For any company, especially one in the communications industry, Twitter is a boon. It’s one of the best ways to keep in touch with other companies in the same field, share thoughts and ideas with clients and make your presence felt in the online world.

The New York Times calls Twitter “one of the fastest-growing phenomena on the Internet.” TIME Magazine says, “Twitter is on its way to becoming the next killer app.”

Any post on Twitter is referred to as a ‘tweet’. Most individuals and companies throughout the world are ‘tweeting’ everyday about various issues. As of June 2009, Twitter attracted 44.5 million unique visitors worldwide. According to alexa.com, Twitter is the 12^th most visited site in the world. No surprise, then, that Intengu has joined the “In” crowd and set up a Twitter profile! We’ll be tweeting about various events and programmes we are undertaking so click the link to follow us: http://twitter.com/Intengu.

We are extremely thrilled to announce that our branch in Port Elizabeth is now open and ready to assist you with your communication requirements!

After a number of requests from our clients, we decided to open this branch to service the needs of clients in this area. The office is managed by Mr Zukile Madikane, an experienced business consultant and he is assisted by Accounts Executive, Mr Amir Mpayipeli, and Secretary – Mrs Estelle van der Vyver.

You will find us on the corner of Rink & Haveloc Streets, Central, Port Elizabeth.  Call us today for all your communications requirements:

Tel:  041 582 4414.  Email:  estelle [AT] intengu.co.za