METHODS TO IMPROVE COMMUNICATION SKILLS Individual Efforts Individuals must be aware of their communication barriers and make conscious efforts to improve skills. The four basic skills needed in proportion for managers are: speaking 30%, listening 45%, writing 9%, reading 16%. Feedback and nonverbal skills are also very important. Speaking skills like presentations, interviews, meetings, telephone, and interpersonal conversations can be developed through training and practice. Listening actively and attentively is essential and needs consistent effort to cultivate. Writing must be precise with clear language and persuasion. Reading techniques help process information efficiently via skimming, speed reading, etc. Nonverbal sensitivity provides cues. Seeking and using feedback improves two-way communication. Organizational Efforts Organizations must maintain communication media, environment, policies and channels. Notice boards, intercoms, intranet, email, messengers, and face-to-face meetings are key media. Layouts and procedures should enable smooth information flow. Messages must go through proper channels to avoid ill-will. Meetings and networks allow simultaneous information receipt to prevent distortion. Suggestion schemes and open-door policies help overcome status barriers. A considered communication policy and training in skills improves organizational communication competence. Improving Communication Cross-cultural With global business, interacting across cultures is common. Useful tips include: assuming difference rather than similarity until sure; using description over evaluation/interpretation; understanding the other's perspective; taking courses on the culture; speaking clearly and slowly; avoiding confusing questions and negatives; summarizing to check understanding; avoiding slang, idioms, humor; and maintaining etiquette. Cross-cultural awareness improves international communication.