In his book, Everyone Communicates Few Connect, John Maxwell writes about five principles in connecting with others, and five practices one can use in establishing that connection. Today, I am going to continue my discussion on one of those topics: the practice of keeping it simple. Or, AKA – The Art of Simplicity.
The third observation in keeping communication simple is: Say it clearly.
According to John Maxwell, “You must be able to see something clearly in your mind before you can say it clearly with your mouth. Anytime people cannot articulate an idea well, it’s a sure sign that they don’t possess a good enough understanding of it.” A suggestion: think of a word picture. Better than that: create a mental image of what you hope to say.
I remember in my earlier training days an incident when I did not have a complete grasp about what I needed to know. It was not a pleasant experience, but it was a growth experience. Trying to communicate an idea, or a process, without fully understanding it myself was a struggle and caused confusion – for me. I can’t imagine what the new hires thought. The experience proved to me that I needed to know better the material to better communicate with clarity.
“In the land of Gibberish, the man who makes sense, the man who speaks clearly, clearly speaks nonsense.” Jarod Kintz
In the end, people are persuaded not by what we say, but by what they understand.
“I know that you believe you understand what you think I said, but I’m not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant.” Robert McCloskey
When we speak clearly and simply, more people can understand what you are trying to communicate. “Being simple as a communicator isn’t a weakness. It’s a strength!”
While searching the internet, I found this saying below. It maybe considered not a very strong example, but still it is an attempt on my part to demonstrate a thought not clearly communicated – regardless of the misspelled word.
Do you communicate clearly to others at your workplace, church, social gathering, or elsewhere? When there is something important to explain to others (especially) at work, or to customers, do you make sure you have a grasp on the subject matter well enough to be clear in your words? What are your thoughts? Maybe share one of your experiences.
I look forward to hearing from YOU.