September 9-2025

By: Dhania Puspa

Why Effective Speaking Matters for Career and Life

In today’s fast-paced and information-rich world, the ability to speak effectively is no longer just an added skill — it’s an essential necessity. Whether in professional settings or personal life, how we deliver messages determines if people truly listen, understand, and respond well.

According to research from Harvard Business Review, 70% of a professional’s success depends heavily on their communication skills. Ironically, many still struggle to convey ideas clearly and persuasively.

If you want to build influence, strengthen relationships, and achieve your goals more easily, mastering effective speaking is key. Paul McGee’s book, How to Speak So People Really Listen, offers practical guidance to help anyone improve their communication skills authentically and impactfully.

In this article, we will explore communication techniques you can apply immediately — from speaking confidently, using clear language, to overcoming common communication barriers — all delivered in Qando Qoaching’s inspiring and practical style.

Be Authentic and Confident When You Speak

One of the main keys to getting people to truly listen is authenticity. What does that mean? Speak honestly, be yourself, and show confidence without exaggeration.

Why Authenticity Matters

People tend to be drawn to and trust speakers who come across as sincere and honest. Authenticity radiates positive energy that makes listeners feel comfortable and open. When you speak from the heart, your message feels stronger and more meaningful.

How to Build Confidence in Speaking

1. Thorough Preparation: Know your topic well. Preparation is the foundation of confidence.
2. Know Your Audience: Understand who will hear you so you can tailor your message to their needs.
3. Start Positively: Begin with something light or an engaging short story.
4. Use Open Body Language: Stand tall, maintain natural eye contact, and smile to boost your confidence.
5. Regular Practice: Like exercising, confidence grows with consistent practice.

Use Simple and Understandable Language

One of the biggest mistakes in communication is using complicated language or jargon that listeners don’t understand. Remember, the main goal of communication is to convey messages clearly and be well received.

Why Simple Language is Important

Simple language helps listeners focus on the core message, reduces confusion, and speeds up understanding. Often, effective communication uses easy and familiar words.

Tips for Choosing the Right Words

1. Avoid Excessive Jargon or Technical Terms: Use common terms unless you are sure your audience understands the jargon.
2. Use Short and Clear Sentences: Long, complex sentences can cause listeners to lose focus.
3. Use Examples and Analogies: Help explain difficult concepts in an easy-to-understand way.
4. Speak in a Conversational Tone: Imagine you’re talking to a close friend to keep your language natural and warm.

Use Your Voice Tone and Body Language to Reinforce Your Message

Communication is not just about words but also how those words are delivered. Voice tone and body language greatly influence how the message is received.

How to Manage Intonation, Volume, and Pace

• Intonation: Vary your pitch to show emotion and emphasize key points.
• Volume: Adjust based on the situation; don’t be too soft or too loud to avoid seeming forceful.
• Pace: Speak at a comfortable speed — not too fast to be hard to follow, nor too slow to be boring.

Body Language that Supports Verbal Communication

• Eye Contact: Shows interest and confidence.
• Hand Gestures: Help clarify and emphasize your points.
• Posture: Stand or sit with an open stance to show openness and confidence.
• Facial Expressions: Match them with your message to make it more lively and authentic.

Active Listening: The Key to Successful Two-Way Communication

Effective speaking is not only about what you say but also how well you listen. Active listening is a critical skill to ensure communication flows both ways.

What is Active Listening?

Active listening means giving full attention to the speaker, understanding the message, and responding appropriately. It’s different from just hearing because you truly try to comprehend the content and context.

Why is Empathy Important in Listening?

Empathy allows you to feel and understand another person’s perspective. With empathy, communication becomes more effective because listeners feel valued and heard, opening the way for more constructive discussions and stronger relationships.

Active Listening Techniques

1. Give Full Focus: Avoid distractions like phones or wandering thoughts.
2. Use Supportive Body Language: Nod, maintain eye contact, and show appropriate facial expressions.
3. Provide Feedback: Use short phrases like “I see” or “Can you explain more?” to show you are engaged.
4. Don’t Interrupt: Let the speaker finish their thought before responding.
5. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Show interest and help clarify the message.

Clear and Engaging Message Structure to Boost Influence

Besides how you speak, how you organize your message greatly determines communication success. A well-structured message is easier to remember and leaves a strong impression.

How to Structure an Effective Message

1. Engaging Opening: Start with a surprising fact, question, or brief story to grab attention.
2. Organized Body: Present key points clearly and in order. Use bullets or numbers if needed.
3. Strong Closing: End with a summary or call to action that reinforces your main message.

The Power of Storytelling in Communication

Stories help deliver messages in a more vivid and memorable way. Storytelling connects listeners’ emotions and makes your message more impactful.

Overcoming Common Communication Barriers

In practice, various barriers may arise when speaking — from nervousness to distractions or negative listener reactions. Recognizing and overcoming these is vital to maintain effective communication.

How to Handle Nervousness

• Thorough Preparation: The more prepared you are, the less nervous you’ll feel.
• Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing calms nerves and improves focus.
• Positive Visualization: Imagine successful speaking and your audience receiving your message well.
• Start with a Smile: Helps release tension and relaxes you.

Managing Distractions

• Minimize Interruptions: Turn off your phone, choose a quiet place, and arrange your environment for focus.
• Focus on the Core Message: Don’t let minor distractions derail you.
• Use Aids: Slides or notes can help keep your speech on track.

Dealing with Negative Reactions

• Stay Calm and Professional: Don’t react emotionally; listen openly.
• Find Common Ground: Ask for their opinions to understand their perspective.
• Clarify Clearly: Use data or examples to strengthen your argument.
• If Needed, End Politely: Not all disagreements are resolved immediately.

Practical Exercises and Tips to Improve Speaking Skills

Communication is a skill you can continuously develop. Here are practical exercises you can do:

1. Practice in Front of a Mirror: Work on facial expressions, body language, and tone.
2. Record Yourself: Listen back for evaluation and improvement.
3. Practice with Friends or Mentors: Get constructive feedback.
4. Join Workshops or Coaching: Such as Qando Qoaching’s programs for professional guidance.
5. Read and Expand Vocabulary: Richer language makes messages more varied and interesting.
6. Apply Mindfulness: Helps reduce nervousness and increase focus when speaking.

Why Effective Speaking is the Best Investment for Career and Life

The ability to speak so people truly listen is not just a talent but the result of practice, self-awareness, and the right techniques. By being authentic, using simple language, optimizing voice tone and body language, and mastering active listening, you can increase your influence and build better relationships.

It’s never too late to start sharpening this skill. Especially with professional coaching support, like the programs at Qando Qoaching, your journey to becoming a great communicator will be more focused and effective.

Join Our Program!

Want to significantly improve your communication and leadership skills? Qando Qoaching offers coaching and training programs designed to help you speak confidently, build influence, and achieve your career and life goals.

Visit us at campsite.bio/qqgroup and follow Qando Qoaching on Instagram for the latest updates.

Together, we step forward toward a Great Indonesia!