Finding your voice: The power of Words, Silence, and Growth in communication

This blog solely reflects the author's opinion and does not represent the views of Deloitte.

Was it “dada” or “mama”? That first sound we ever made marked our entry into this world. As we grow, those noises turn into words we use to express our needs. Words become sentences that convey our feelings, and sentences become speeches where we share our ideas. It is amazing how we go from babbling to delivering speeches, showing just how powerful our ability to communicate really is.

In this blog, we will delve into how you could improve communication and interpersonal skills with a few simple tips.

Change your words, change your world

Effective communication is about understanding what the listener’s expectation is, and how to tailor your message to meet that expectation while preserving the original meaning. Consider this example: “This class has a 20% failure rate” vs “This class has an 80% pass rate”. Most likely you would have the perception that the first subject is much harder to learn, when in fact, both statements are conveying the same fact; this is called the framing effect. By choosing our words thoughtfully, we can steer conversations, shape attitudes, and sway decisions in impactful ways.

The power of silence

Timing is a critical element in effective communication. In group meetings, especially, your seniority should often dictate that you speak later, allowing others the opportunity to voice their perspectives first. This approach fosters a more diverse range of ideas and does not inadvertently guide the discussion toward alignment with your own views, especially in teams with hierarchical work cultures. You won’t only be seen as respectful of others’ contributions, but also as a good leader who is fostering an inclusive environment.

Speaking volumes without saying a word

You communicate actively even without speaking. Non-verbal cues, including your behaviour, posture, and even how you dress, reveal much about your personality, confidence, and awareness of the situation and cultural norms. Mastering these cues can significantly enhance your ability to connect with others and effectively convey your message in various contexts.

Growing through communication

Communication, like any other skill in life, is something that can be taught and learnt. The famous 70-20-10 rule provides a perfect model: 10% of learning comes from formal education, 20% from observing others, and a significant 70% from direct experience. The first step to doing anything is often the most difficult. However as daunting as it may seem, the key is to get yourself in action—begin with something small and gradually expand your comfort zone. As Bruce Lee famously said, "Courage is not the absence of fear. It's the ability to act in the presence of fear."

Conclusion: Embrace the journey

Life is a journey, and communication stands as a pivotal skill we must continually refine. We should seek out opportunities to practice and improve not just our communication skills, but all skills we wish to master. While it may be challenging, you could make mistakes and even feel embarrassed at times. Embrace the present moment and the progress you are making along the way. Remember, “You can't get so hung up on where you would rather be that you forget to make the most of where you are” – Arthur, Passengers.

So, ask yourself: Are you ready to start living and creating impactful changes?