A group of friends are discussing the most significant development in the last two hundred years.One person says, “I think the computer is the most significant. We can’t live without them.”Another friend says, “I don’t agree. Antibiotics is the answer.”Yet another person says, “No, the most significant development in the last two hundred years is the light globe because computers, cars and planes couldn’t operate without a light globe. We cannot live without the light globe.”Knowing how to give your opinion is crucial to getting your point of view known and accepted.Giving an opinion is an excellent way to interact with people in formal and informal settings. However, there are some aspects to think about whether you will give an opinion or not.

Anyone who thinks the art of conversation is dead ought to tell a child to go to bed.   Robert C. GallagherHow true is this quote! Many children engage in a continuous conversation when it is bed time, in an attempt to not go to bed.Do you know someone who reels out a monologue to their listeners, and doesn’t realise a conversation requires dialogue? A garrulous person doesn’t just like to talk, they indulge in talking for talking’s sake. Some people cannot keep quiet and others remain silent. On the other hand, we all know someone who has the knack for good conversation. They have a manner which can set a stranger at ease.There are some guidelines or reminders for engaging in conversation. The obvious ones include being attentive, actively listening, having some talking topics ready, tailoring your contribution to your listener, taking your turn to speak and thinking before you speak. However, there are some other tools you can use to have an effective conversation and one that maximises the contribution and enjoyment by anyone present.

Have you ever known people who immediately connect with others?  It doesn’t matter who they meet, they create mutual understanding and trust. These people seem to have a natural ability. However, anyone can learn the skills of rapport and nurture them.What is rapport?It is the establishment of two-way connections by forming a meaningful harmonious relationship between people based on mutual understanding of trust and agreement. It basically is an emotional connection with other people.It is usually based on shared experiences, points of view and shared humour.Everyone can benefit from having rapport with others. Whether with colleagues, friends, families, within the community or as a customer, building rapport is important in our personal lives.When you first meet someone new, you start to build rapport. Small talk will help you find things in common and build a shared bond. It is much easier to build rapport with someone who is very like you, or who shares common interests.Employers are more likely to employ someone whom they think will fit in well with their other staff. Personal relationships are easier to make and develop when there is a close connection between people.

How can you speak confidently?Speaking confidently can be achieved by using techniques which create a dynamic message. However, the most important thing to remember is to fully know and understand what you are saying, and why you are saying it. A monotone delivery, low energy, speaking softly and mumbling are not enjoyed by anyone. Your voice has the power to completely change what others think of you. You can choose to be the authentic you. In 2009 when Susan Boyle performed on Britain’s Got Talent, she surpassed preconceived notions of what a good singer is supposed to look like. Her voice created a personal brand that has become well-known. This is the fourth in a series of 2020 blogs on confidence. The main techniques when using your voice are speech clarity, creating word pictures, voice projection, pace, pitch, pausing and inflection. When public speaking, to one or two people, or to a larger audience, the same techniques can be used.