When we communicate with others, we often focus on what we should say. However, effective communication is less about talking and more about listening. Listening well means not just understanding the words or the information being communicated, but also understanding the emotions the speaker is trying to convey.

There are many techniques involved in communication viz.

• Pay attention and give the speaker your undivided attention.
• Show that you are listening. You must be seen to be listening.
• Give feedback. Our life experiences and beliefs can distort. Keep an open mind.
• Try not to interrupt. Respond appropriately. Active listening encourages respect.

There are several different ways we share information. For example, you might use verbal communication when sharing a presentation with a group. You might use written communication when applying for a job or sending an email. Thus we have Verbal, Non-Verbal, Written, and Visual communication. We can discuss each of these types of communication.

• Verbal communication is the use of language to transfer information through speaking or sign language. It is one of the most common types, often used during presentations, video conferences and phone calls, meetings, and one on one conversation. Some of the steps we can take to develop this communication would be - Use a strong, confident speaking voice, Use active listening, and Avoid filler words.
• Non-Verbal communication is the use of body language, gestures, and facial expressions to convey information to others. It can both be intentionally or unintentionally. This communication is helpful when trying to understand others’ thoughts and feelings. If someone displays ‘closed’ body language such as crossed arms or hunched shoulders, they might be feeling anxious, angry, or nervous, and if they display ‘open’ body language with both feet on the floor and arms by their side or on the table, they are likely feeling positive and open to information. There are some steps you can take to develop your nonverbal communication skills. Notice how your emotions feel physically, by intentional about your nonverbal communications, mimic nonverbal communications you find effective.
• Written communication is the act of writing, typing, or printing symbols like letters and numbers to convey information. It is helpful because it provides a record of information for reference. Writing is commonly used to share information through books, pamphlets, blogs, letters, memos, and more. Emails and chats are a common form of written communication in the workplace. Some of the steps we can take to improve it would be striving for simplicity, not relying on tone, taking time to review your written communications, and keeping a file of writing you find effective or enjoyable.
• Visual communication is the act of using photographs, art, drawings, sketches, charts, and graphs to convey information. Visuals are often used as an aid during presentations to provide helpful content alongside written or verbal communication. Because people have different learning styles, visual communication might be more helpful for some to consume ideas and information. To develop your visual communication skills, you can ask others before including visuals and be sure to include visuals that are easily understood by your audience.

These skills can be acquired with proper training. Crucial Conversations® by Vitalsmarts imparts you with the skills that represent the standard in effective communication and the marker of higher performance individuals and organizations everywhere.

Conclusion: The importance of Crucial Communications in business is of utmost importance for the growth of the organization. With suitable training, this skill can be acquired and it would take the