Let’s be real—no one wakes up one day magically knowing how to communicate like a pro. It’s something we learn, sometimes the hard way (like that time I hit “reply all” on a company-wide email—ouch). But here’s the good news: communication is a skill, and like any skill, you can get better at it with a little practice and a lot of awareness.
Why Communication Matters More Than You Think
Whether you’re starting your first job, joining a team, or diving into an internship in London, your ability to communicate clearly and confidently can be a total game changer. It’s not just about speaking well or having a strong vocabulary—it’s about being understood, building trust, and creating connections that matter.
Let me paint you a picture. Imagine you’re interning at a fast-paced marketing agency in London. Your supervisor asks for a “quick turnaround” on a project. You nod, say yes, and hustle back to your desk. But wait—what exactly did they mean by “quick”? An hour? By end of day? Tomorrow morning? Not asking that one tiny clarifying question could mean the difference between impressing your team and, well, awkward follow-up meetings.
So, How Do You Actually Get Better at Communicating?
Here are some simple, down-to-earth tips that can make a huge difference:
1. Listen like you mean it
You know that thing where you’re already thinking of your response while the other person is still talking? Yeah, don’t do that. Really listen. Nod, ask questions, and show you’re paying attention. People notice.
2. Ask smart (but not annoying) questions
Don’t be afraid to clarify! It shows you’re engaged. Just keep it relevant. Asking your boss in London what they had for lunch might be charming the first time, but maybe skip it when there’s a deadline looming.
3. Watch your tone
Tone is tricky, especially over email or Slack. What sounds chill in your head might come off as passive-aggressive. If you’re not sure, read it out loud or run it by a friend.
4. Nonverbal cues are everything
Eye contact, posture, facial expressions—they all speak volumes. Think about it: would you trust someone who’s staring at their shoes while telling you they’re confident?
5. Practice makes not-perfect-but-better
No one nails it every time. But the more you put yourself out there—whether it’s speaking up in meetings or giving a mini-presentation during your internship in London—the easier it gets. Promise.
A Quick Story Before We Wrap
During my own internship (yes, in London), I once sent a Slack message to the wrong “Sophie” on our team. Instead of asking for design feedback, I ended up complimenting the office manager’s dog photos. She was flattered. I was embarrassed. We both laughed. And you know what? That little moment built a fun connection that made me feel way more comfortable speaking up later on.
Final Thoughts (aka the Pep Talk)
Effective communication isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being human. Whether you’re on your first day of an internship in London or ten years into your career, showing up with clarity, curiosity, and a touch of empathy will take you far.
So speak up, ask the questions, and yes, triple-check who you’re messaging. You’ve got this.
