You're in Sales Engineering. How can you make sure your communication skills are top-notch?

1 Know your audience

Before you communicate with anyone, you need to understand who they are, what they need, and what they expect from you. Research your audience, ask questions, and listen actively. Tailor your message, tone, and style to suit their level of knowledge, interest, and personality. Avoid jargon, acronyms, and technical details that might confuse or bore them. Focus on the benefits and value of your solution, not just the features and functions.

2 Prepare and practice

Communication is not something you can wing. You need to plan, prepare, and practice your communication, whether it's a phone call, an email, a demo, or a presentation. Use a clear structure, a compelling story, and a strong call to action. Use visual aids, such as slides, diagrams, or videos, to support your points and engage your audience. Practice your communication with a colleague, a friend, or a mirror. Get feedback and refine your communication until you feel confident and comfortable.

3 Be clear and concise

Communication is not about how much you say, but how well you say it. You need to be clear and concise in your communication, especially when you deal with complex or technical topics. Use simple and direct language, avoid ambiguity and vagueness, and explain concepts with examples and analogies. Be brief and to the point, and avoid rambling or repeating yourself. Summarize your main points and check for understanding and agreement.

4 Be respectful and professional

Communication is not only about what you say, but also how you say it. You need to be respectful and professional in your communication, especially when you deal with diverse and challenging situations. Use polite and courteous language, avoid interrupting or talking over others, and acknowledge their opinions and concerns. Be honest and transparent, avoid making promises you can't keep, and admit your mistakes and limitations. Be positive and enthusiastic, but also realistic and credible.

5 Be adaptable and flexible

Communication is not a one-way street, but a two-way interaction. You need to be adaptable and flexible in your communication, especially when you deal with changing and unexpected scenarios. Monitor your audience's reactions, feedback, and questions, and adjust your communication accordingly. Use open-ended questions, active listening, and empathy to understand their needs, motivations, and objections. Be ready to improvise, pivot, or pause your communication if needed. Be open to learning and improving your communication skills.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?