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By Mary-Louise Angoujard, Chief Executive, Rapporta If there’s one top position and two candidates, the job will go to the candidate who has superior communication skills. Being able to communicate efficiently and effectively is extraordinarily important but is so often overlooked or taken for granted by executives. A promotion often depends on whether or not an individual can create a stronger rapport or bond with the interviewer, communicate the point, and engage the other party. In general, develop more positive communication skills. Linda Clark, Managing Director of The Human Choice, a London recruitment firm specialising in retail says, “A large part of every management role, in addition to technical capability, is working effectively with people. Not having the right level of communication skills and personal impact can often compromise the success of (otherwise qualified) candidates.” In sales, for example, building rapport and trust is the first step to creating strong relationships and mutual understanding. Verbal and nonverbal communication, as well as product and commercial know-how, are hugely important for positive impact. Howard Goring, International HR Manager of German automotive supplier and manufacturer Webasto AG comments, “The candidate with the best balance of technical and communication skills will always be our first choice – so it’s best to be prepared before the opportunity arises.” Whatever the business, communicating positively is important. In addition to how we speak, non-verbal communication such as posture, body language, facial expression and eye contact all have an enormous effect on the leadership presence, authority and personal impact of any executive. Such is the demand for specialist nonverbal coaching that Rapporta has developed a public seminar using comedians to deliver the messages. Body Language for Business dispels common myths and offers practical tips. Mary-Louise Angoujard can be contacted on: |