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by Jo Condrill, M.S.
Have you ever
agonized over what you would've, could've, or should've said? Has your tongue
ever seemed to be disconnected from your brain--especially at a pivotal moment
in time? Have you ever blown a deal, a job interview, a promotion, or a
relationship because you just couldn't think of the right words to say? We have
all experienced these embarrassing moments at some time or another.
You can easily overcome anxiety, expand your abilities, and empower yourself
for success. Decide to do it now. Know what you want to say. Begin with the end
in mind. Listen attentively when someone else is speaking then take a moment to
formulate your thoughts before you begin to speak. There may be a moment of
silence; that is okay.
Get to the point quickly. Then it is easier for the listener to remember what
you said. Provide supporting details using descriptive language, if appropriate.
Most people think in pictures not words. Help them understand your meaning. Take
responsibility for your communication skills. Don't blame others for not
understanding what you mean. If your listener is puzzled, ask "Am I not stating
this clearly?" Rather than "Don't you understand what I just said?" Restate your
message using different words. Eliminate misunderstandings as quickly as
possible.
Respect the other person's point of view, even if it differs profoundly with
yours. This is especially important in an election year. Disagree without being
disagreeable. If everyone had the same point of view, some of us would be
unnecessary! Working with the military in the Pentagon, I learned one very
important lesson in this regard. There is a time for disagreement; showing
optional courses of action was expected. Even displaying strong belief in one
course and pointing out weaknesses in others was acceptable. Naturally, not
everyone agreed on the best course. However, once a decision was taken, everyone
fell in to support it to their utmost. That's what's missing on the American
scene at this time. We need to develop this approach to do what's best for all
Americans.
Concentrate on improving your skills and overcoming embarrassing blunders.
Effective communication skills are the mark of an achiever!
A free self-assessment is available at
http://www.goalminds.com/RateYou.htm |
