What did you say?!

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​Over the last week, there has been a bit of a subtle focus going on for me, around communication.  Talk about a never-ending discussion. (Yes, double, bad pun!) For the sake of this Blog, I share 3 examples of what has come up.
 
First – as a continuous learner, I am reading the book Conversational Intelligence. Author Judith E. Glaser, while educating on brain functionality, describes types of conversations we engage in and the role of “trust” in how we communicate with each other.  It is always fascinating how often we can return to basic, centralized principles in relation to creating the quality of our life. Simply stated, without trust it is unlikely you will experience transformational interactions. But then of course, how exhausting it would be if ALL communication were at this deeper level, of share/discover. Sometimes you just need to exchange information. Other times, your goals are to advocate your position. Being aware of the desired outcome, helps channel how best to communicate. Having a singular approach may keep you from maximizing potential.  

Secondly – building upon the ideas of multiple approaches, it can be said that it is not always about what is stated, but how spoken or even more important heard. There are writings after writings and supportive data, to validate over and over, we hear through our own filters, individual story. This reality brings up the continuous chance for us ALL to be aware of others from their experiences to personalities, taking a walk in another's shoes. About a year ago, I was introduced and trained on an amazing tool that makes this a feat that can be accomplished. Not just another personality assessment, B.A.N.K. from CodeBreaker Technologies, will teach you (together with a cool AI feature) how to show “understanding” and slightly adapt your conversational approach to initiate a stronger connection with whomever you are interacting with. Launched to capitalize on Why They Buy,  (by Cheri Tree) for extraordinary sales results, there is no reason not to apply the techniques for greater team building and personal conversations too.

Thirdly – working with my small business clients, there has been a theme around expectations, discussed within communication strategies. Whether it is coaching owners, management team to establish a structure covering how they will communicate with each other (frequency, manner, accountabilities, agenda) to the verbal and nonverbal messaging showing up as culture (of business or family) to writing a proposal to clearly defining your audience (client, marketing target) engagement trigger, establishing clarity around expectations is not just a best practice but positions ALL for the greatest opportunities to succeed. Intentionally stating “expectations”, you can track accountabilities and work towards achieving what may be measured.

Trust + Understanding + Expectations… 3 knowns, but reminding, starting points when advising on or evaluating communication.
Easy...if only so!  Happy communicating.

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Connecting to Inspire a Better Life, a Better Way

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