The Most Important Question
The Most Important Question
There is a question that everyone should be prepared to ask.
It is, "When you say that, what do you MEAN, specifically?"
If you say, "I believe in a fair wage, for everyone", then the people should reply, "What do you mean by a "fair wage?"
If you write, "Sam, when you come to the meeting, please ensure you bring with you all the relevant papers".
Then Sam is bound to wonder, "When he says, relevant papers, what does he mean, specifically?"
Stand ready to answer the question, or better still, pre-empt the question, by supplying the additional detail that will remedy any confusion or ambiguity.
Go through your message and identify any words or phrases that have the potential to be misunderstood or mis-represented and then either, reword your message, or elaborate upon your exact meaning.
Failure to properly explain your exact meaning will lead to painful consequences.
If you fail to explain your ideas properly you run the risk of:
- Being misunderstood.
- Being misrepresented.
- Losing your credibility as a knowledgeable person.
- Losing your power to persuade people.
Be ready to ASK the same question.
"When you say that, what do you mean specifically".
When listening to others, don't guess at their meaning.
Don't assume they mean what you think they mean.
If you are not sure about the exact meaning, then ask them to elucidate!
About the Author: Chris Farmer
Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years' experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.
Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.
Blogs by Email
Do you want to receive an email whenever we post a new blog? The blogs contain article 5-10 minutes long - ideal for reading during your coffee break!
Further Reading in Communication - Clear Communication
-
The Secrets of Effective Communication
Words have great power. They can conjure up images in the minds of your listener. Think about the language you use in order to avoid any misunderstanding. In business, using the correct words can make or break a sale.
Read Article > -
Six Top Tips to Improve Your Communication
Don't be misunderstood! Make it your mission today to improve your communication skills with your colleagues and friends. Here are our top tips to help you achieve this.
Read Article > -
Training to Improve Your Communication Skills
People do make judgements of you, based on your appearance and what you say. In order to give the right impression, try some new ways to improve your communication skills. You will improve your confidence and gain respect in the process.
Read Article > -
Three ways to improve your communication skills
How can you improve your communication skills? Communication is important to you because you use your communication to gain the cooperation of others. You need the cooperation of others: you need cooperation from your colleagues, your suppliers, your customers, and your family. If you cannot gain the cooperative assistance of others...
Read Article > -
Eight Ways to Improve Your Communication Skills
Good communication skills are vital to successful relationships both in work and in your personal life. Here are eight ways to improve your communication skills.
Read Article >
Looking for Communication Skills Training?
If you're looking to develop your Clear Communication Skills, you may find this Communication Skills Training Course beneficial:
Open Training Course Pricing and Availability
Next Open Course Starts in 4 days, London - Central, places available