PERSUASIVE COMMUNICATION: Cracking the Winning Communicator Code
Let’s explore three essential points that align with you and pave the way for persuasive communication. Let’s get you closer to be the leader you aspire to be for your team, but become the leader you so deeply desire to be for YOURSELF!
Harness the Power of Active Listening:
The first step in YOU becoming the persuasive communicator you can be be is to become an active listener. I know, this might sound a little couter-intuitive. Here’s the secret ingredient:
“Communication is not just about talking; it's about understanding and connecting with your counterpart.”
Your counterpart could be your audience, the team you lead, your direct report, your friends or spouse. When you actively listen, you show how much you respect their thoughts and feelings. Take the time to absorb their perspective before responding. If you listen 1 more minute than anybody else, you will hear what no one else hears. This not only builds trust but also allows you to tailor your message to address their specific needs and concerns.
Clarity Trumps Complexity:
Simplicity and clarity are the unsung heroes of effective communication. As mentor John C. Maxwell says:
“Great communicators are always ready to do the hard work in order to make it sound simple.”
It is said that some people like to complicate simple topics while others simplify complex subjects. Your message should be crystal clear and easily digestible. Avoid jargon, convoluted language, or the so often used information overload. When you break down complex ideas into simple, relatable concepts, YOU win and everyone else WINS. When your audience can effortlessly grasp your message, they are more likely to engage with it and act upon it. Remember, clarity is the bridge that between your message and your audience's understanding.
Storytelling that Resonates:
Stories are the currency of human connection. We humans have been using stories since the dawn of time. When you craft compelling narratives that resonate with your people on a personal level, who do you thinks benefits for it? E V E R Y O N E! Share experiences, anecdotes, and success stories that align with your values and mission. Stories evoke emotions and create lasting impressions. Whether you're building your personal brand or representing a business, working up the corporate ladder or storytelling is the secret sauce to making your message memorable and persuasive.
These principles lay the foundation for persuasive communication that aligns perfectly with WHO YOU ARE. As we continue this series, we'll go deeper into advanced strategies and techniques to enhance your communication skills, empowering you to become a truly exceptional communicator. Stay tuned for more invaluable insights and practical advice in our upcoming installments.