- Begin With the Premise that “Communication Is Everything!”
Our success in any context of life rises and falls on our ability to connect with and influence others…elevate this skill and you will rise with it.
- Invest In Improving Your Communication Skills.
Your investment will engender ongoing returns because you are investing in you. Since most people do not consistently focus on improving themselves or their skill-sets; doing so will often put you center stage.
- Believe In Yourself.
Our estimation of ourselves is the driving factor for communication. Most people sell themselves short…be the exception. A strong foundation of self-esteem is your platform for building the life and career you want. It also allows you to lavish your attention on others. They will love you for it.
- Be Clear On Your Desired Outcome.
What exactly do you want to communicate? What response do you want to elicit from the other person or group? Are you going for “agreement”— or will “increased understanding” and greater rapport drive progress?
- Remember That Communication Is A Process, Not An Event.
We all blow it from time to time because we are human. It could be our tone of voice, body language, or that we drop the ball on a commitment (our behavior communicates the loudest)—make amends and get back in the game, it’s far from over.
- Focus On The Outcome You Want, Not On Assigning Blame.
Being assertive does not translate into pointing a finger at anyone, including at you. Five years from now, will being “right” improve your career or life in any way? Why not invest your time and energy in finding and implementing solutions.
- Leverage The Power In Setting The Example.
Whatever you want from others, get out front and lead the way. Give respect, understanding, tolerance, empathy, and commitment because what you give will be reflected back to you. Being the critic will get you attention, being the exemplar will get you ahead.
- Recognize That All Behavior Has A Positive Intent.
All behavior does not have positive consequences, but human beings do engage in behaviors that make sense to them. Our behaviors are intended to get us what we want. The next time someone behaves in a way that is disturbing to you, understand that it’s unlikely they were trying to hurt you or your career…they were simply trying to help themselves in some way.
- Remember That The Most Important Person You Will Ever Communicate With Is… You!
Prioritize learning how to communicate more effectively with yourself first and foremost. This is the determinant factor in how well you will be able to communicate with others. If there were such a thing as a silver bullet, highly effective self-communication would be it.
- Appeal To The Other Persons Self-Interest.
Nothing is as influential or persuasive as finding out what the other person wants or craves and tapping into that powerful force. Most people want to be heard, respected, included, and challenged. Give them what they want and they will follow you anywhere.