Webinar recap: speaking for understanding

This Clear Language Lab webinar took place on December 12, 2024 as part of the Plain Language Foundations series. Check out the notes below or access the webinar recording and slides.

Key points

Plain language in spoken communication

Clear and effective spoken communication is:

1. Responsive: the speaker adapts information + processes to the needs of the audience 

2. Easy to follow: the speakers introduces new topics and presents information in a logical order

3. Familiar: the speaker uses simple, everyday language and a friendly tone

4. Visual: the speaker uses images, slides, handouts, and real-life objects to help the audience connect with and remember the information

Building trust with your audience:

• Follow through on what you say

• Make it easy to connect with a real person 

• Provide options for communication (e.g. phone, chat, or email)

• Be yourself! Authentic interactions build relationships

Use CRAFTY to prepare for intentional conversations: 

• Circumstances: What’s the context? Why and where are you having this conversation?

• Relationships: What is our relationship with our audience?   

• Audience: What are they looking for? What background information do they have or need? 

• Format: How are we communicating? What do I need to pay attention to for this format?

• Topic: What are we talking about?

• Your Purpose: What do you want your audience to know or do because of this conversation?

“Active listening” and conversational norms are not universal: 

• Approach differences with curiosity

• Don’t make assumptions based on behavior

• Offer multiple ways for people to communicate 

• Adapt to the needs and expectations of the communities you serve

Tips for clear spoken communication

1. Slow down by exaggerating natural pauses. Listeners often need more time to process information and questions than we think. 

2. Prepare your audience by introducing new ideas and explaining how topics are connected.

3. Center your audience by connecting the topic to what matters to them and what they already know.

4. Show empathy by acknowledging challenges and making space for questions.

5. Group information into logical chunks and explain ideas 1 at a time. For processes, explain steps in the order they happen. 

6. Check for understanding to make sure what you’re sharing is connecting with your audience.  

Resources

General resources

• The Lab Report blog: Speaking in plain language

• The Lab Report blog: How plain language can help you become a better listener

• TV show + movie clip examples from the webinar

Checking for understanding

• Use Teach-Back to confirm understanding 

• Teach-Back.org 

• Mentimeter 

PowerPoint

• Video: Animations and transitions - Microsoft Support 

• Insert images, icons, and more in Microsoft 365  

Interested in learning more about professional development at Clear Language Lab? Check out other past webinars, find upcoming events on our training page, or contact Sarah Glazer, Sr. Program Manager, at sarah@litworks.org to learn more about our offerings.

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