Mastering Business Discourse: 3 Strategies for Effective Communication in the Professional Arena

Hey fabulous humans! Can you believe we’ve successfully catapulted ourselves into another year? It’s like we’re all starring in our own blockbuster movie, and I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to embrace the script with gusto! So, let’s kick off the year by talking about something that might seem mundane but packs a punch – upgrading our communication game. Why? Life is hard enough without adding to the pile of misunderstandings, confusion, or frustration that occurs when we don’t consistently practice the following three strategies.

1. Reframe Rather than Repeat. If someone appears confused, perplexed or asks you directly for clarity after you’ve communicated, note that repetition isn’t always the mother of learning. Instead of starring in the sequel of “The Repetition Chronicles,” consider giving your message a wardrobe change. Switch up your words or toss in a new example – it’s the blockbuster strategy for ensuring everyone gets the plot without a rerun. Instead of assuming they didn’t hear you, consider they might not have grasped your message and offer more information or additional background.?
2. Clarity is a Rarity. When speaking to audiences, I work diligently to craft clear, compelling presentations. Yet, I personally struggle in my everyday communication as my default setting is the opposite of brevity and clarity. But as I say in my keynotes, “Awareness only builds connection when we put it into action!” And connection and communication go hand in hand. Therefore, extra effort goes into leading with the headline, avoiding pronouns, updating subject lines and always rereading my emails or texts before sending. I aim for crystal-clear email replies, considering the recipient’s busy schedule to eliminate the need for context review.
3. Dialogue Delivery Matters. In the workplace film, our words are carefully crafted scenes that, when delivered with respect, create a story of collaboration and harmony. We all know those moments when you’re trying to diplomatically tell your colleague their idea is about as appealing as a root canal. Instead of blurting out, “That idea is a trainwreck waiting to happen,” why not try, “Interesting take! How do you see this aligning with our current objectives?” Or, “Ok, let’s explore how this might play out together.”?

Personally, I’m making a conscious commitment to replace go-to violent phrases because I’m heartbroken with the volume of violence in our world. Rather than, “we need to pull the trigger” I’m choosing, “we’re going to launch.” “Let me take the first stab,” is shifting to “Let me take the first pass.” As I often speak to the real estate industry, I’ve already incorporated the term “primary bedroom” vs “master bedroom.” After all, it’s not woke to wake up and choose language that helps us to better connect with one another.

Being a frequent flyer, I recently witnessed a flight attendant who incorporated the above strategies to gain the attention of exit row individuals. “Would you all be so kind as to remove your earbuds, put down your phone and look into my eyes while I share important information so we can be certain to be in excellent hands should there be an emergency?” Now that’s a script I’d like to hear more often!?

At the heart of every sale, every interaction between a leader and a team member, every conversation with a customer…. is a connection. And most importantly, connection begins within. How to make those connections effective, and leverage them for greater success whether in person or remotely, is the thread that is woven into every one of Colette Carlson’s presentations. For more information on Colette’s customized, virtual or in-person programs, give us a call.