Saying Less for more impact

Have you had conversations with other people when they don’t get to the point. The “Word Salad” is confusing, frustrating and well Sotto Voce you risk switching off before they reach the point of the conversation. Perhaps they go into far too much (irrelevant) detail; they go off topic, or, dare I say it, they like the sound of their voice too much. ;-)

The challenge is that in a world overflowing with information, we often feel compelled to fill the space with more words, more explanations and as a result,more noise. However, there's immense power in brevity or speaking briefly. When we choose our words wisely, we can make a far greater impact. Here are three reasons why saying less often leads to more:

1. Clarity and Focus Less is often more when it comes to clarity. When you edit your message, it becomes easier for your audience to understand and retain what you’re saying. By eliminating unnecessary details, you ensure that your key point stands out, is memorable and resonates long after the conversation has ended.
2. Increased Curiosity Sometimes, what’s left unsaid is just as powerful as what is spoken. By saying less, you pique curiosity and invite your audience to engage more deeply. They begin to fill in the gaps with their own thoughts, making your message more memorable. It also prompts people to ask questions if they want more information.
3. Authority and Confidence Speaking less often projects confidence and credibility. When you don’t feel the need to over-explain or elaborate endlessly, it suggests you trust your message to stand on its own. People are drawn to voices that exude clarity and conviction.

So how could we achieve this? Here are three tips on how to develop the power of concise speaking.

1. Focus on the Core Message Before speaking or writing, ask yourself: What’s the one thing I want people to remember? Use that as the guiding force behind your communication, and cut out anything that detracts from it.
2. Use Silence to Your Advantage After making a key point, pause. That brief moment of silence allows your words to sink in and gives your audience time to reflect. Pausing can be just as impactful as speaking.
3. Engage with Questions, Not Explanations Instead of continuing to explain your point in great detail, ask open-ended questions. This invites your audience to think critically and contribute, fostering a more engaging and meaningful exchange.

Try this technique and see how others respond to what you say. Remember: less is more.? Do let me know what your successes are.

This is some of the work I do with emerging leaders to ensure they make more impact when they speak. If you would like more details of the masterclasses and individual coaching options email [email protected] or book a call https://link.lemonadeplan.com/widget/appointment/superstarcommunicator/15m-chat ?

We did it! My husband, Neil and I completed the Sepentine Swim. We are raising money for Age UK. My mother had help from the charity to apply for AND appeal her application for a Blue Badge in her car. She now has it. They do incredible work to support elderly people. Here is the link if you would like to support us: https://2024swimserpentine.enthuse.com/pf/susan-wright

I always love to speak to people; if you have any queries or would information about any of the services we offer, please feel free to

book a call https://link.lemonadeplan.com/widget/appointment/superstarcommunicator/15m-chat ?

Until next time,

Best wishes

Susan

Thank you very much for continuing to support the SuperStar Communicator newsletter.?

About the author:

Susan Heaton-Wright is the founder and creator of the SuperStar Communicator? methodology; international speaker, facilitator, coach, former international opera singer and podcaster.

Susan is best known for empowering emerging leaders all over the world to speak and communicate with clarity, confidence and credibility; through her speeches, by facilitating masterclasses and workshops and by coaching talented individuals. Since 2020 she has delivered virtual masterclasses and workshops to attendees from more than 130 countries world wide and has won a number of awards for her work. She is currently creating AI learning options to increase the learning experiences for her clients.

She is curious for any changes in communication changes and especially in a technical world. Keeping the human element in communication is essential for the maximum impact! Susan co-hosts live streamed discussions with business leaders and is the co-host of the SuperStar Communicator Podcast.?

?Susan facilitates workshops - face to face and virtually on a range of topics:?

• Presentation Skills
• Public Speaking
• Assertiveness Skills
• Having difficult conversations
• Women in Leadership Communication
• How to Demonstrate Credibility
• How to be Positively Disruptive
• Networking Skills

These topics are also available as masterclasses.

I also coach talented people on being more impactful for career progression. Do contact me for more information on the one to one coaching services on communication skills I offer.

And as a speaker Susan delivers speeches on:

• How to demonstrate credibility
• Women in Leadership Communication
• Be a SuperStar Communicator: be seen, be heard, make an impact

Why not challenge your communication skills with our 30 Day planner. Purchase here.

When not working, Susan designs and sews her own wardrobe; surfs, swims and plays the viola in an orchestra. She fundraises for the Alzheimers Society, The Isabel Hospice and supports the St Albans PostBoxes Charity.

Why not connect with her on Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/susanheatonwright ?

If you wish to arrange a call: you can book here: https://link.lemonadeplan.com/widget/appointment/superstarcommunicator/15m-chat ?

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