Being honest might not get you a lot of friends, but it will always get you the right ones. – John Lennon
John’s quote fits perfectly with today’s theme. The toughest communication is one that you may have with yourself!
Most of us think that we are great listeners and communicators. If we are as good as we “think” – why are there so many communication breakdowns at work or home?
The answer is…
Us! That’s right, you read this correctly. I am guilty of thinking the very same thing. I know this is true when giving directions for a group activity and the group looks at me like deer staring at headlights. It’s NOT them. It’s the way I gave the directions. Believe me, I am continuously learning how to improve and I’m a Communication Strategist!
So, Joyce How Can I Start Becoming a Better Communicator?
Look at the list below and see what areas you need to develop in order to communicate better.
- Be brief and concise-get to the point
- Be forceful and definite rather than hesitant and apologetic
- Talk in specifics-give examples and details
- Talk in generalizations and explanations
- Let others know when I disagree with them
- Let others know when I am getting irritated
- Listen more than I speak with others
- Talk in group discussions
Now What, Joyce?
Select one or two areas and make a conscious effort to work on these skills immediately. If you need to talk in group discussions, start giving your opinions or even ask a question. Some of these areas could be holding you back from growing as a leader.
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A recognized expert on resolving leadership and communication in the workplace, Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP is an author, Communication Strategist, and a Certified Speaking Professional. To book Joyce to speak at your event or company call: 800.713.1926 or email: Joyce@JoyceWeiss.com
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Until next time,
This is Joyce Weiss, Communication Strategist and Coach
I share powerful techniques on tackling tough conversations to build employee engagement, accountability, and improve my clients’ quality of life.
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See YOU Next Week.
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Wendy Edelman says
This is something I am also aware of and one other tip that is starting to help me is to treat any meeting I lead as I would a sales call. With sales, we do pre-call planning. What do you want out of the call? Who will be in the call? What do they care about and what are their main roles? These same questions should apply to leading any meeting where you need to get your point across.
Joyce Weiss says
Wendy, this idea is welcoming and very helpful. I hope that my readers see your comment because it could help ALL leaders who need help in making their meetings better. I wish I was a fly on the wall during one of your meetings because you obviously understand the necessity of listening to others.