Many people have difficulty with oral communication, be it stage fright or simply low self-confidence. Enhancing your oral communication skills allows you to speak correctly, with confidence and authority. Oral communication skills are vital to interviewing and maintaining most jobs. Whether you are doing first-time training or continuing your education in this area, understanding oral communication skills will help you find the courses you need. There are many words and phrases used in oral communication training that may be new or have other meanings. Familiarize yourself with these words to review information about oral communication skills with ease and speed.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Colloquial speech and idioms

Colloquial speech is slang or informal words used in conversation. Idioms are words or phrases that, when used in certain regions or areas, mean something different than they do in other areas. Idioms may also be called 'jargon.'

I recommend: ELT Notebook has information and examples of colloquial speech and idioms.

Emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence has multiple definitions. One is the ability to understand and harness emotions and then use those emotions to enhance your thought and communication. Another definition is the skill to evaluate other people's emotions and regulate your actions to match their emotions.

I recommend: Visit Emotional Intelligence for a history and explanation of emotional intelligence. The University of New Hampshire provides more information about emotional intelligence.

Para-Language

Para-Language is a nonverbal way of communicating. This includes body language, tone, laughter and facial expressions. When used correctly, para-language can change the entire meaning of a sentence.

I recommend: Word Press supplies detailed information about para-language.

Syntax

Syntax is the placement and relationship of words and elements in sentences and phrases. Syntax can refer to an entire language, a thought or one speaker.

I recommend: Visit wiseGEEK to learn more about syntax.

Diction

Diction is the range of word choice, pronunciation and clarity in a speaker's voice. In oral communication, diction refers to clarity and proper pronunciation.

I recommend: Learn more about diction at Speedy Look. The Vocalist also provides information about why diction is important.

Rubric

A rubric is a collection or set of guidelines or characteristics that are used to grade or assess oral communication. Rubrics are set by educators to help students improve verbal skills.

I recommend: Ohio State University provides an example of a rubric for assessment of oral communication skills. Read more about rubrics at the San Mateo County Office of Education.

Without developing oral communication skill, even the most knowledgeable and talented business person won't be as successful as possible. Being able to present your ideas and accomplishments in an organized, coherent manner will increase your chances for promotion and new opportunities. In addition, building your oral communication skill will boost your self-esteem and confidence, which will improve your performance in the business world as well.

Finding a qualified oral communication skill provider that meets your needs is key. It's worth spending the time to evaluate your own needs, budget and availability to find oral communication skill development training that's right for you. With current technology, you have more options than ever to find a competent oral communication skill provider.

1. Oral communication skill classes from traditional sources can be a reliable and convenient choice.

2. Oral communication skill coaches provide personalized training.

3. Books, videos and Internet sources offer lower-cost alternatives for oral communication skill development.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find oral communication skill training from traditional sources

Colleges and universities offer individual courses and seminars in addition to degree programs in oral communication skill development. A private oral communication skill provider will often customize courses and seminars to meet your needs. If you are a human resource professional, consider an on-site seminar for your department or key personnel.

I recommend: American Management Association offers a certificate program in addition to individual seminars and a handy oral communication skill directory for seminar locations. Traditional colleges and universities, like Stanford University, offer undergraduate and graduate programs in oral communication.

Consider coaching for intensive oral communication skill training

One-on-one instruction with an oral communication skill provider may be a pricier alternative to traditional classes, but it can pay off in the long run. Coaching offers you an intensive, highly personalized experience that will give you an edge over your competition.

I recommend: Professional Presence offers customized programs for individuals and firms or organizations. Simply Speaking will work with you to offer video, phone or on-site training and develop a program that meets your needs.

Use alternative media for cost-effective oral communication skill instruction

You can find oral communication skill information through a variety of media, and the cost is often lower than traditional training. If you are looking for a refresher course or just need oral communication skill information, consider these alternatives.

I recommend: Perhaps the most well-known oral communication skill provider, Dale Carnegie, offers a free download on oral communication skill building as well as a large selection of books and courses. Harvard Business has a comprehensive kit consisting of books, articles and a CD-ROM.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Even before you contact an oral communication skill provider, experts agree that practicing a speech or presentation is the single most valuable thing you can do to improve your skills and raise your self-confidence.