A Critical Doer generates motion from “why” more than “what”
In my last post, we discussed how the way you communicate reflects how well you understand the “why” of anything you’re doing. Part 1 focused on “the four communication horsemen of apocalypse” that can leave you DEAD (drama, emotion, arrogance, deceit) and limit your capacity to do.
Let’s look at the flip side of the coin and talk about ways to make your communication ALIVE and increase your capacity to do,
- A – Analytical. There are a number of ways to communicate your ideas that clearly demonstrate your position is based upon critical thinking. A good analytical approach is starting with a clear articulation of the problem, lay out the facts, propose multiple solutions, describe the pros and cons of each, and make a recommendation.
- L – Length. You’ve heard a number of clichés that speak to managing length of communication…you’re putting 10 pounds of stuff in a 5 pound sock, etc. Organize your pitch based upon the time available not what you feel is necessary. Being sensitive to the demands of another person’s time will help you make the jump from hearing to listening. You can have more data and go deeper if the other person wants…let them make the choice to spend more time than allotted. This is equally applicable to email and other forms of written communication.
- I – Inclusive. If you’ve already talked to the individuals or groups that have a stake in the idea you’re communicating, you gain acceptability faster and increase your capacity for action. Talking with others may feel like it’s slowing you down initially, but you’ll gain incredible velocity in action through coordination.
- V – Vitality. Here’s a great opportunity to show you understand the difference between emotion and passion from the previous post. Interject energy and your own personality to avoid being forgettable. Your own passion is contagious with listeners and signals commitment…a key factor in getting buy in from a listener.
- E – Executable. People who are busy today need solutions today. Be accurate in classifying your communications as an idea…a thought without a plan of action…or a solution…a thought with a plan and resources that can be put into action. There’s a time and place for both…know the difference.
Critical Doers, your challenge is to recognize how communication is the key that unlocks the door to action. Ultimately winners are the ones who get things done, solve problems, and create opportunities. Communication is a necessary skill to be a doer and lead others to be doers. Your tactics in communication can limit your potential and leave you DEAD…or be a key enabler that makes you come ALIVE. Take the lessons to heart and increase those special moments of high achievement. It’s what a Critical Doer would…do!
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