“Communication makes the world go round. It facilitates human connections and allows us to learn, grow and progress. It’s not just about speaking or reading, but understanding what is being said – and in some cases what is not being said. Communication is the most important skill any leader can possess.” – Richard Branson
These days any instruction or suggestion I give to my cheeky five year old is greeted with an exaggerated weary response of ‘blah, blah, blah.’ Both amusing and thought provoking, I sometimes wonder how many adults are actually thinking that too but just refrain from saying it out loud. How can we be sure our messages aren’t all sounding like regurgitative ‘blah?’
Here are three communication tips to avoid ‘blah’ potential:
The power of pausing
Use the pause at those critical moments where you need to choose the best communication for the best outcome. Pausing gives space, and space gives room for reflection, perspective and ideas.
If you find you struggle to zip it at the crucial moments, then focus on your breathing. At a minimum count three breaths before you say anything. This will help distract you from jumping in verbally.
Richie Benaud was known as the Master of the Pause. He once said, “Put your brain into gear and if you can’t add to what’s happening on the screen, then just shut up.”
The power of adapting
In high stake situations, we tend to default back to our own natural communication style. It is at these moments where you’ll have far more impact if you flex your style to match theirs. It’s worth remembering that the meaning of communication is the response you get. Speak their language, not yours.
The power of engaging
With any message to have impact, ensure you are giving the purpose, or the ‘Why,’ before you offload the detail. Include stories to engage their hearts and minds, and use extensive questioning to spark interest and ensure clarity.
When you have a key message to get across to any stakeholder, it’s always worth spending a moment designing your delivery. Aim to ignite their curiosity and buy-in, not their ‘blah’ filter.