Sure, it isn’t just what you say, but how you say it. We know that. But, could powerful, effective and persuasive communication be even more than that?
How about “when and where” you say it? We’ve all heard the expression, “now is not the time and place to discuss this.” So, the best communicators make sure that if they’re going to say something of importance, it is at the proper moment, and within a physical environment best suited to the situation.
While praising a member of your team is best done in public, if you need to rebuke that person, it’s certainly best – except for in extreme circumstances – not to do so in front of the others, but in private.
At the same time, even in private, if it’s a conversation that needs to take 15 minutes, best not to attempt it when you have an appointment just five minutes from now.
When I was growing up and we had Family Meetings to iron out a problem or situation, it was made sure before beginning that everyone had proper time to discuss what needed to be discussed. If not, the meeting was reset.
When trying to persuade someone to take your side of the issue about an important topic, is it really going to happen in just two minutes at a party when you’re surrounded by dozens of people, any of whom could join your conversation without notice? Probably not.
All this seems obvious but – as life moves fast and “things come up” – it’s easy to forget and try to “get things done when we have the chance.” This often becomes counter-productive instead of productive.
I’d love to know your thoughts and continue the discussion future articles. I believe this topic alone is key when differentiating between communication that “works” and communication that doesn’t.
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Hi Bob..so true about Timing. Isn’t the fact that we feel the need to “blurt” something out and then regret it afterwards indictative of the fact that we most often are thinking of ourselves and what WE want rather than the other person/s involved?
I know I’ve done that countless times 🙂
Thx again!
Sean
Sean, that is a GREAT point you make. Terrific. And, yes, I’ve done that countless times, as well! 🙂