Influencing With Communication

This is the final post in a three-part series on the Image ABCs — tools of image management that promote a positive influence.

?We need to communicate to maintain relationships and survive as humans. This communication includes the verbal and nonverbal, the words you say and write, how well you listen, your facial and body language, the sound of your voice, images you share and so much more. How effectively you do this makes all the difference in your relationships and influence on others.

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Communication Essentials

This is too large a topic for a brief post, so here are four fundamental ideas to think about. How do you communicate with others? And, most important, do you need to change something to be more effective?

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2) How well do you understand both others’ needs and your own? Do you tend to focus on what something might mean to them, what it means to you or somewhere in between?

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3) Does how you communicate with others align well with your professional presence (your “brand”) and how you appear and behave overall? Are your professional communications stable, thoughtful and positive?

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4) Are you clear and concise when you communicate with others? Do they understand what you mean and feel free to ask questions? Do you feel comfortable asking questions when you need more information? Can people trust that what you say is what you mean?

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Bottom line? When you use all three of the Image ABCs — Appearance, Behavior and Communication — effectively, you’re enhancing your power to influence others in a positive and productive manner every day.

Kelly Duggan is an executive presence consultant and personal brand strategist. Her certified company is an award-winning member of the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI). www.kellyduggan.com / https://linktr.ee/kdiconsulting