We’ve all been there—struggling to get our point across, watching as eyes glaze over, or feeling the sting of a message that lands flat.
Effective communication isn’t just about talking; it’s about connection, clarity, and impact.
However, becoming a truly effective communicator and speaker isn’t just about learning what to do—it’s also about unlearning what not to do. Bad habits, even subtle ones, can undermine your message and leave your audience disengaged or confused.
Today, we’re diving into eight habits you need to say goodbye to if you want to master the art of communication and become a speaker who truly resonates.
Ready to elevate your communication game? Let’s get started.
1) Overloading with information
The first habit that we need to bid adieu to is the tendency to overload our audience with information.
Believe it or not, less is more when it comes to effective communication. Your listeners can only process so much at a time. Flooding them with facts and figures might make you seem knowledgeable, but it’s likely to overwhelm and confuse them.
Effective speakers know the importance of simplicity and clarity. Just look up one of Steve Jobs’ product launches!
Great communicators strip their message down to its most essential elements, ensuring it’s easily understood and remembered.
Stick to the core points, use clear and concise language, and strive for understanding above all. Your goal isn’t to show off your knowledge – it’s to get your message across.
2) Avoiding eye contact
I’ll never forget the first time I gave a presentation at a big conference. I was nervous, so instead of looking at my audience, I focused on the PowerPoint slides behind me. My message, though well-prepared, fell flat.
Why? Because I wasn’t connecting with my audience. Eye contact is key to building that connection. It communicates confidence, sincerity, and respect. It tells your listener, “I’m talking to you and I value your attention.”
If you’re like me and have a tendency to look away during conversations or presentations, it’s time to break that habit.
Practice maintaining comfortable eye contact. It might feel awkward at first, but with time, it’ll become more natural and your communication will be stronger for it.
3) Neglecting body language
Communication isn’t just about words. In fact, according to a study by Dr. Albert Mehrabian, only 7% of communication is about what we say. The rest is tone and non-verbal cues such as body language.
Body language can often tell a story that words cannot. It can show enthusiasm, confidence, and openness, or it can reveal discomfort, dishonesty, and disinterest.
Ignoring your body language or not paying attention to the non-verbal cues of others can lead to miscommunication. It’s essential to be aware of what our bodies are saying and ensure it aligns with our words.
If you’re crossing your arms while talking about open-mindedness or failing to make eye contact when discussing honesty, your message might get lost in translation.
Your body speaks volumes. Make sure it’s saying the right things.
4) Interrupting others
We’ve all been there – in the middle of a conversation or a meeting and eager to get our point across.
But sometimes, in our enthusiasm, we tend to interrupt others.
Few things derail effective communication faster than this. When you cut someone off mid-sentence, it sends a clear (and unintentional) message: What I have to say is more important than what you’re saying.
This habit not only disrupts the flow of a conversation but can also leave others feeling disrespected or unheard. Communication is a two-way street, and listening is just as vital as speaking.
To break the habit of interrupting, practice active listening.
Focus fully on the person speaking and resist the urge to jump in with your thoughts. Pause for a moment after they finish to ensure they’ve fully expressed themselves before responding.
5) Not being authentic
In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with messages of how we should act or what we should say, it’s easy to lose sight of our true selves.
But in communication, authenticity is key.
Trying to be someone you’re not or saying things you don’t truly believe can create a disconnect between you and your audience. It can make your communication feel forced and insincere.
Each one of us has a unique voice and perspective to share. And when we communicate from a place of authenticity, it resonates with people on a deeper level.
Embrace your quirks, share your thoughts openly, and be true to yourself in your conversations. Genuine communication is powerful and impactful. It can inspire others, build trust, and foster meaningful connections.
6) Using jargon excessively
This is such a huge one.
In our quest to sound knowledgeable and professional, we often resort to industry jargon.
But excessive use of buzzwords and technical terms can alienate your audience, especially if they’re not familiar with the terminology.
Effective communication is about being understood, not about sounding smart. It’s better to use simple and clear language that everyone can understand.
7) Avoiding vulnerability
Here’s one you might not have expected, right? Well, hear me out.
I’m not saying you should pour your heart out in every conversation or presentation—vulnerability has a time and a place. But when used wisely, it can be incredibly powerful.
Why? Because people don’t relate to perfection.
Sharing your challenges, mistakes, or fears in the right context can make you more relatable and trustworthy. It shows your audience that you’re human, just like them, and it creates an emotional connection that perfection simply can’t achieve.
Think of the most inspiring speakers or communicators you know. Chances are, they’ve shared a personal story or moment of vulnerability that stuck with you.
Embracing vulnerability doesn’t mean being weak—it means being brave enough to show your real self. When done thoughtfully, it can transform your communication from surface-level to unforgettable.
8) Not practicing empathy
If there’s one thing you take away from this post, let it be this.
The core of all effective communication lies in empathy. It’s about understanding the emotions, needs, and perspectives of others. Without it, our communication can seem detached and impersonal.
Make it a habit to put yourself in the other person’s shoes. Strive to understand their viewpoint and respond with kindness and respect. This fosters deeper connections and makes your communication more impactful.
Wrapping it up
Becoming an effective communicator and speaker isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about continuous growth and refinement.
By letting go of these habits, you’ll not only enhance the clarity and impact of your message but also build stronger connections with your audience.
So, take a moment to reflect on your habits and ask yourself: Which of these can I start working on today?
Your journey to becoming a genuinely effective communicator begins now.
