Are You Talking To Me?

“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place”
~ George Bernard Shaw

We have ALL been on both sides of this quote. In our business and career, or our personal life and relationships. You expressed something and in your mind it was a clear and to the point statement. Either right then or at some point later it becomes obvious your message was heard differently by the person you were speaking with.

This is not a new phenomenon. Communicating effectively between one or two people or groups of people takes practice and patience. Add in various cultures, upbringing and demographics to the mix and it is easy to see how gaps in understanding may take place.

Why is it that today effective communication in person is even more challenging:

• Everyone has a short attention span
• Distractions (some people have to look at their ‘smart’ phone every five seconds)
• Over half the population would rather text, communicate on social media or even GFB email rather than have an in person, face-to-face conversation.
• Self-absorbed (always thinking about what they need to/want to say – so actually they are not hearing a word you are saying at all)
• Busy, so busy, busy, busy (you really think I have time to listen to you?).
• Plenty more…Feel free to add your favorites in the comment section and come on back here.

You are thinking – “Okay Mitch, so what would you have us do?”

Here are three tips for you to use to raise your lid in the Art of Effective Communication:

These all work in business – career – personal – relationships:

A   – APPROACH – Approach any personal interaction with a smile. Yes smile.

You won’t break anything – Promise. Then have a brief authentic check in. This may be about weather, sports, family and it is genuine, yet, brief.

R   – REPEAT – When you have heard something from someone else repeat it back to them.

Do this how it works best for you. An Example: “Okay do you mind if I say what I heard from you to ensure I have it right?” Then repeat what you heard.

T   – THANK YOU – Say thank you for meeting me.

Say thank you for taking the time to speak with me. Use your own style and either start or close or both by saying “Thank you”.

Use these three (3) tips to increase your skills in the Art Of Effective Communication.

Did you know that Wenkroy International LLC offers training for individuals and groups on effective communication?

If you are interested click here

Mitch Tublin is the CEO and Founder of Wenkroy International LLC a boutique consulting company with a main focus on Strategic Business Consulting, Training and Business Coaching.