Even when we know something very well, explaining it to someone else requires skill. A good explanation is clear and logical. A good explainer engages with people, keeps them interested, and makes sure they understand.
Explaining something once may not be enough. Silence, nods or smiles do not always mean the person has understood. Confirm that your explanation has been clear and that people have understood. Double check.
Storyline
The art of explaining concepts and information is covered in four key steps about engagement, structure, maintaining interest and ensuring understanding. While Carol is impatient and patronizing with new starters, others like Sam, Alex, Steve and Michael are more patient and creative in ensuring their messages are understood one to one or in groups.
Four steps are used to demonstrate effective communication skills when explaining.
Step 1: Positively engage the listener. Carol loses patience when explaining basic concepts to Carlos and Tammy, so delegates to Sam who is calm and engaging.
Step 2: How to be clear and structured with your communication. Serena explains this through structuring your message with a definitive beginning middle and end.
Step 3: Maintain interest. Alex is able to demonstrate through the use of a phone App how you can maintain people’s interest by using visual and technological aids.
Step 4: Be patient and ensure understanding. Sam demonstrates patience and understanding; ensuring information is understood through repetition and clarification.
Key Learning Points
- Don’t be intolerant INSTEAD: Positively engage the listener
- Don’t ramble INSTEAD: Be clear and structured
- Don’t be dull and boring INSTEAD: Maintain interest
- Don’t assume they understand INSTEAD: Ensure understanding
Interactive eLearning course
This video program is also available as a short stimulating eLearning course with interactive learning modules, recap activities, inline video and quiz assessments, designed to engage learners and build skills.
