Our words go much deeper than the standard definitions we see in a dictionary, however we may not intend them to be viewed that way. In order to connect with people we must understand how our words will be perceived and choose them wisely. It is an interesting challenge that we can all start today: adjust your words to connect with people. This article teaches us how to connect with others using four simple changes to our mindset. Please check it out and become a more effective communicator!
- By taking the time to find out WHY the people around you think the way they do, you will be less likely to make unrealistic assumptions.
- By appreciating differing points of view, you will be able to understand how to motivate different individuals.
- By approaching every individual with a genuine curiosity you will be able to use every moment as a learning opportunity rather than a time for judgement.
- By just listening and observing the word choices and honoring the thoughts of those around you, you will be able to identify what is truly important to them and be able to communicate in their language.
**We can choose to think those around us think just like us, or we can appreciate the rich tapestry of thought from which we can learn and grow. The payoff is just not in appreciating diversity, but building a diverse school of thought that will help us communicate and lead more effectively.
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Written by Sherri Petro, President of VPI Strategies & California Miramar University (CMU) Professor Sherri is a professor, accomplished strategist, organizational development professional and executive coach. She consulted for 13 years in the for-profit, non-profit, and government sectors after a 16 year corporate career. She teaches the Strategy Capstone as well as Leadership, Change Management and Business Ethics courses in CMU’s MBA program. Her current passion is educating organizations on how to increase organizational sustainability by leveraging the talents and skills of all in multi-generational workplaces. Sherri offers remedies to misunderstandings that result from different belief structures and lack of coherent communication by creating understanding and making connections at the belief level not only at the behavioral level.
Do you have a question for Sherri? Please visit our Workplace Communication Skills Community, she will be happy to help: Ask an Expert