Being a communication major can often lead to negative stereotypes. I used to think there was not much I could do with a communication degree, but I was proven wrong the minute I walked into my first communication class. I’ve learned countless things in all my communication classes. From researching topics about the media to interacting with others on an emotional level, the art of communication is a powerful thing.
1) Research Is Key.
If you want to be taken seriously, you need to know what you are talking about. By being a Communication major, research is heavily emphasized. Not only do you gain more knowledge about particular topics, you are able to present yourself professionally.
2) Eye-contact Is Important.
Whether it is talking to a group of people or one other person, eye-contact is highly stressed. Maintaining eye-contact while talking to someone else illustrates interest, importance, and value. If we are just staring at our phone when talking to someone else, we don’t feel as important and assume the other person is not even listening to us.
3) Group Work Can Lead To Outstanding Things.
Communicating in groups can be tricky, but it is definitely possible. There are different types of group members, and communicating efficiently is necessary. You have to present yourself in a way where you are not too bossy as a leader, but not the group slacker either. By communicating strategically with each group member, the task at hand can get accomplished.
4) Words Matter.
Whether it is a dispute or a serious conversation, what you say to someone can seriously affect how they will react or respond to you. If you are hot-headed, chances are the conversation is not going to end well. However, by being calm and saying things slowly, it can help the other individual understand what is going on so there is no tension in the air afterward.
5) Public Speaking Skills Mean Everything.
For most, public speaking can be a fear. It can be terrifying talking in front of a large crowd, however, with practice, the fear can go away. Public speaking means so much in life because it gives strangers a chance to get to know you. You want to be able to present yourself in a way where you are seen as confident.
Although those are only the few things I have learned throughout my years of being a communication major, I learned that these skills are very important in the workplace and in the “real world”. It teaches you how to present yourself professionally and how to network with others. I wouldn’t say communication is just a “skill”, I’d say it’s an art. There are so many ways to master it and there are so many ways things can go wrong by an error of talking or non-verbal communication.
