In This Episode
How come nobody understands me? Didn’t I already tell you that? How many times do I have to tell you not to do it that way? We hear these questions and many more from business owners who are frustrated that they are having trouble communicating with folks.
Like most things in life, if you can keep it simple it’s a good thing! As you know, simple isn’t always easy. When it comes to being an effective communicator it’s important to keep it simple and keep a few things in mind. The best place to start is with the purpose or desired outcome of your communication. Are you looking to inform, persuade, reprimand, etc.? As part of that thought process, what’s the best way to communicate that message? In person vs. video conference vs. phone call vs. email or text?
How does the person/people you’re communicating with prefer to communicate and engage. Are they more of a Visual learning where they have to see it? Or are they more about doing it and are sensitive to tone and how things feel which is part of being more Kinesthetic? Or maybe they just need to hear it as they are more of an Auditory person. In reality we are all a combination of all of these, but we certainly have preferences.
Speaking of preferences, people also have different behavior styles. We’ve talked about DISC on the show a lot over the years and it’s really essential when it comes to effective communication. You need to appreciate and understand not only your DISC style but also the DISC style of the person you’re communicating with.
When it comes to your business, one of the most important communication tools is regular meetings. These meetings give you a chance to Direct your team to accomplish the Plans you’ve laid out for the year.
OK, take a deep breath and relax. We covered all of this and more in the show including the importance of listening. Also, see if you can figure out Jack’s focus on cement this week! We think you’ll really find it helpful as you continue to improve your communication skills!
People, Companies and Resources We Mentioned in the Show
- Cool Hand Luke (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cool_Hand_Luke)
- Tower of Babel (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tower_of_Babel)
- VAK Learning Styles (https://thepeakperformancecenter.com/educational-learning/learning/preferences/learning-styles/vak/)
- Extended DISC (https://www.extendeddisc.org)
- Groundhog Day (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Groundhog_Day_(film))
- Theodore Roosevelt (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theodore_Roosevelt)
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