Communicating with more than one person can be difficult, confusing and sometimes terrifying. But the ability to effectively present information to others is one of the most important skills in modern business. Understanding your message is the key to successful presentation. Unfortunately many presenters fail to consider the key elements of their message and, as a result, do not communicate effectively. This can lead to misunderstanding and at worst they leave their audience confused and unsatisfied.

Why? The first step to understanding your message is to set your objective. Why are you communicating? To many this seems obvious? ?Of course I know why I?m talking to these people, if I didn?t I wouldn?t be here!? But clearly stating your intentions is not as easy as it might seem. Good presenters are able to sum up their objective in one simple sentence and use this as a guide to structuring every aspect of the presentation.

Who? Understanding your audience?s objectives is as important as understanding your own. In order to communicate effectively it is vital that you know who your audience are, in terms of background, language level and knowledge of the subject. It is also crucial that you think carefully about why your audience are listening to you. View communication as a form of negotiation; you and your audience may have different desired outcomes but it is up to you to make sure that you both get what you want.

What? Deciding how you will achieve your objective means selecting concise and easily understandable material. The content of any presentation should be relevant and chosen because it helps the audience understand; not because it makes the presentation easier for the presenter!

How? How you communicate your message will involve thinking about structure, language and visual aids. Remember to keep it as simple as you can and to put yourself in the audience?s position? be honest, would you understand the message?

So, next time you?re trying to communicate, ask yourself a question? ?Am I really getting the message across??

For more information regarding building your confidence, developing your business English and communication of all forms, contact the British Council in Rose Hill for expert tuition in a professional and friendly environment.

<B>Daniel CARROLL</B>