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!
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Further Reading in Communication - Clear Communication
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Finding a Common Frame of Reference
Instead of categorising people based on differences like gender, race, age, and personality traits. Finding a common frame of reference suggests focusing on similarities, rather than differences, to foster understanding and connection among people.
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Communication skills for trainers or presenters
Communication skills for trainers or presenters As a trainer or presenter: You have three major goals. To make your messages and material: 1. Informative 2. Enjoyable 3. Memorable Let us look at each in turn: Informative Your delegate must find your material informative. In order for that to happen, you must...
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Presentation Skills for Nervous People
Many people find making presentations nerve-wracking. But there is a success formula for making effective presentations, which can help even the most nervous speaker. Find out how you can be more confident and take advantage of FREE training today.
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Think Before You Speak
Did you see the upset that Donald Trump caused last week with his ill-thought-out words about COVID-19, in front of the world's media? This is a great example of why you should always think before you speak.
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Better Work Relationships
Developing your ability to create and maintain excellent relationships will help you enjoy more success in every aspect of your life.
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Looking for Communication Skills Training?
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