Last night while reflecting on my day with a friend, I found a recurring situation quite displeasing. It became apparent to me that the fine art of verbal communication in a public setting eludes quite a few people. I'm no expert but I did major in both Business Administration and Communication Studies. So while drinking my tea and discussing the issue with my friend I compiled a list of tips that everyone should keep in mind when socializing with those who are less familiar with your mannerisms.
Be Knowledgeable
I could not possibly stress how important it is to know what you are talking about. Unfiltered ignorant commentary on any subject will get you nowhere in any social arena. It may get you some attention, but not the sort of attention that anyone seeks. Please educate yourself and if by some chance you find yourself involved in a conversation that focuses on matters that you have no knowledge about please be quiet and listen. You could possibly learn something.
Be Confident
What you have to say is important. So say it with the confidence that it deserves. Oh and for the love of all that is glorious left in this world please leave the inconsistent language in your childhood. Every other word/sound should not be a 'like' or 'um', it is decreasing your credibility. Also, never ever after this point should you precede any statement with 'I may be wrong' or anything comparable. You know what you're saying so say it without the disclaimer. If you are wrong then God bless the soul that provides you with the knowledge that you are about to receive.
Be Concise & Clear
Your words deserve a clear and concise medium in which to reach the masses (or the 2 or 3 people listening). Please pronounce and enunciate clearly. For a few it's as simple as slowing down and focusing when you speak. A personal tip: Open your mouth more when you speak, literally. It almost forces you to pronounce each syllable. This is a little harder to perfect but practice get a lot closer to perfection than wishing does.
Be Courageous, Honest, and Tactful
You are brilliant and what you have to say deserves to be heard. Just remember to say it in a tactful manner. If you can't say it without obscenities or yelling then it should not be said until you can convey your thoughts without inspiring a physical or verbal altercation.
Your goal is to be honest and tactful in voicing your thoughts, because sometimes it takes courage to speak up. So don't let what you have to say be upstaged by ignorance, obscenities, or inconsistencies.
