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by Sarah MeyerUnless you are communicating clearly, directly, and assertively, you are not the one in charge.
How can we expect others to know what we want unless we are able to communicate the desired action? Too often we feel that our feelings, thoughts and words are unimportant because what we want appears to be overlooked. Use the following checklist to communicate your ideas more effectively:
Have you identified the purpose of your communication?
Do you know what you really want your audience to do as a result of your message? Are you merely giving them information, or do you want them to do something with the information? Are you trying to change someone's attitude or opinion?
Have you considered the results of your ideas before communicating them?
Who will be affected? Have you considered the other person's point of view, his or her wants, needs, or interests? What changes will be made if you are successful? What happens if your audience will not buy into your message?
Does your tone of voice match the actual words you use?
Is your request made with feeling? Are you sincere? Do you really believe in your message? Is the same meaning conveyed through your posture, gestures, facial expressions and eyes?
Do your actions speak as loud as your words?
Do you say one thing, but act differently yourself? Your credibility is lost if what you do and what you say is not the same thing. Do you show respect for your listeners?
Do you really listen to what the other person is saying?
Do you clearly understand what is being said? Do you allow the other person to speak without being interrupted? Are you pre-judging their remarks? Do you "tune out" before the other person is finished speaking?
If you want to be in charge, you must take charge. Accept the responsibility of communicating clearly, directly and assertively. Most important, be respectful of others and practice what you preach.
-Sarah Meyer, Speech Development Consultants Ltd.
Used with permission
