What do the best communicators do better than good ones?

9.  They are conversational.

Does your writing read like you talk? Do the words have an authentic feel, or do they sound like you are trying too hard or using a thesaurus?

Regardless of the communication method used, we tend to trust messages more when the communicator puts us at ease and talks on our own level. During the 1996 Presidential debates, Senator Dole and President Clinton presented two very different communication styles. Senator Dole was formal, stiff, and blunt in his answers. President Clinton was conversational, personable, and relaxed. Forget the politics: President Clinton’s conversational style scored higher in each debate.

Want to help your listener or reader follow your thoughts?

Help them relax by being conversational instead of overly formal.