Oddly enough, many of the things that you would include in your introductions should be included in your conclusions. Both introductions and conclusions should be brief, compared to the body of the speech, which is the main reason you are speaking. The things listed as being important in your introductions are important in your conclusions.
1. Who am I?
2. Who are they?
3. Why should they care?
4. What kind of "map" will the audience need?
5. How can more senses be involved?
6. What will aid their recall?
Who am I? Who you are establishes what you can say. If you are well known and trusted you have high credibility. In the areas you are well known and trusted your audience will "allow" you to say a great deal, especially if they wanted to know about it. If you have been successful at doing things your credibility will be high in those areas of your success. Again, if your audience wants to know about those things they will be able to listen better as well as retain what you have said. In large part, they attend because they wanted to know and you could dependably tell them what they wanted to know.
Who are they? If your audience has a need to know what you know and the background to understand what you're saying, you have an excellent opportunity to have a successful communication. If they have known weaknesses then you need to consider those when delivering the body of the speech and touch on them in your conclusion. If the material can be summarized quickly with yet another interpretation it would be useful in the conclusion.
Why should they care? Because, as you will briefly summarize, what you have said will aid them in reaching their goal. They will be more successful, happier, better informed, etc.
What kind of "map" will the audience need? They will need to be able to recall the main ideas that you have presented. Those main ideas are the backbone of your presentation. Whenever possible summarize what you said and then include a brief restatement "in other words" to add to their clarity.
How can more senses be involved? If possible use both vision and hearing in the summary of your presentation. If there were any gestures that you used repeatedly and effectively, use them again in your conclusion. Anything that their brain can use to aid them in recall should be employed.
What will aid their recall? A final remark that invokes their larger goals, that builds on "promises made" and reminds them of the examples in your delivery that cited successes. If possible, save the best to last.
Like the introductions that you create, I would recommend that you put your brain through the process of selecting words for the conclusion. Write it out just as if you were saying it to the audience. That will aid you in being certain that all necessary elements have been included. Don't memorize what you have written, but it would be great if you could practice it a few times. In the introduction you are gaining and holding their attention while telling them who you are and what will be happening in the next few minutes as well as why this is important to them. This is critical to your success in delivering the body of the speech.
In your conclusion you will repeat, in other words, what you said during the introduction while putting a "fine point" of the reason that they should care.
Thursday, March 01, 2012
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Introductions
We should consider introductions to be a major contributor to the success of most communication. That applies to interpersonal communication, small group communication and public speaking presentations. There are questions we can ask ourselves that will aid our thinking process.
1. Who am I?
2. Who are they?
3. Why should they care?
4. What kind of "map" will the audience need?
5. How can more senses be involved?
6. What will aid their recall?
Who am I? Two people can say the same thing with different outcomes. A person that we know and trust can make the statement and we will listen, believe and attempt to retain. Another that we don't know and therefore can't trust can make the statement and we listen with doubt, fear that we cannot trust and don't want to recall it because it might embarrass us. We call those we tend to believe credible.
For example. if you are a regular church member in good standing you probably trust your leader to give you valuable and useful information which you can use to improve your life. If you are listening to a different religious leader you might not listen with the same unquestioning process and fail to either retain what was said or even consider it. Who says a thing is very important.
Include information which will aid your listener in evaluating their need to focus, question and retain what you are saying. Build your own credibility and the introduction is an excellent place to put it.
Who are they? In conversation, one on one, we take into consideration who we are talking to. That permits us to make as much sense as possible in the shortest length of time and achieve the desired result. This rule always applies no matter how large the audience. The more you know about the audience (what they know, what they do, how well they do it, what they would like to know and why) the more likely you will be able to meet their needs and expectations. We call that audience analysis and broadcasters and producers wouldn't know what to do without information about their projected audiences.
Why should they care? If there is no particular reason for them to listen to you, why would they want to spend the time and energy focusing on what you have to say. What's in it for them? That's a legitimate question and it deserves your attention. The reason they should care should be in the introduction. Make it clear and sharply focused to insure that they are willing to spend the necessary time and attention.
What kind of "map" will the audience need? Is the trip they are taking with you a long and winding trip? Or are you able to show them some direct routes to understanding. This process can be likened to a map. It has a starting point and and ending point. Along the way there will be some scenery that they can enjoy and all in all it should be an enjoyable trip. Be certain that the map you use fits the audience that is taking the trip. This going to be clearest to you when you understand how the members of your audience "mean." Remember, meaning is in us. What we are going to attempt is to create that meaning in others. That can't be done without careful consideration of who the audience is. That will include, age, sex, education, experience, income, cultural values to name some of the needed categories. This is an ideal location for your central idea as well as the main ideas you will be covering.
How can more senses be involved? Words (verbal) are detected by hearing. Speak clearly and distinctly at a reasonable pace. It is often very useful to include visual aids: photos and charts for example. In addition, you can convert your "complete outline" into short clear phrases and sentences which can become part of a visual presentation using PowerPoint or other visual presentation software. That way they can see what you are saying while you are saying it. That will involve at least two senses (seeing and hearing) making it easier to follow what you are saying. The nonverbal can be gestures and body movements that underscore what is being shown and said.
What will aid their recall? Numbered sequences, mnemonic devices and actions can be useful to aid your listener to recall what you said. For example: "There are three things that you must recall in order to. . .", "CIGARS will aid you when you are getting ready to takeoff in an airplane. C is for controls. . ." Students in kindergarten are taught letters and sound by combining actions and sounds and the process is very efficient in teaching the alphabet.
I further suggest that you take the time to write out, but not memorize, your introduction. You will find it easier to set the ideas in your mind and analyze the elements you are including. Your brain, having gone over the word choice process once, will do a better job of aiding you to choose your words when standing in front of your audience.
A well thought out introduction will open the minds of your listeners quickly and efficiently. If you lose them at the beginning, you're not likely to get them back ever. Think about what they need and what you need them to think and then give it to them as quickly and clearly as possible.
1. Who am I?
2. Who are they?
3. Why should they care?
4. What kind of "map" will the audience need?
5. How can more senses be involved?
6. What will aid their recall?
Who am I? Two people can say the same thing with different outcomes. A person that we know and trust can make the statement and we will listen, believe and attempt to retain. Another that we don't know and therefore can't trust can make the statement and we listen with doubt, fear that we cannot trust and don't want to recall it because it might embarrass us. We call those we tend to believe credible.
For example. if you are a regular church member in good standing you probably trust your leader to give you valuable and useful information which you can use to improve your life. If you are listening to a different religious leader you might not listen with the same unquestioning process and fail to either retain what was said or even consider it. Who says a thing is very important.
Include information which will aid your listener in evaluating their need to focus, question and retain what you are saying. Build your own credibility and the introduction is an excellent place to put it.
Who are they? In conversation, one on one, we take into consideration who we are talking to. That permits us to make as much sense as possible in the shortest length of time and achieve the desired result. This rule always applies no matter how large the audience. The more you know about the audience (what they know, what they do, how well they do it, what they would like to know and why) the more likely you will be able to meet their needs and expectations. We call that audience analysis and broadcasters and producers wouldn't know what to do without information about their projected audiences.
Why should they care? If there is no particular reason for them to listen to you, why would they want to spend the time and energy focusing on what you have to say. What's in it for them? That's a legitimate question and it deserves your attention. The reason they should care should be in the introduction. Make it clear and sharply focused to insure that they are willing to spend the necessary time and attention.
What kind of "map" will the audience need? Is the trip they are taking with you a long and winding trip? Or are you able to show them some direct routes to understanding. This process can be likened to a map. It has a starting point and and ending point. Along the way there will be some scenery that they can enjoy and all in all it should be an enjoyable trip. Be certain that the map you use fits the audience that is taking the trip. This going to be clearest to you when you understand how the members of your audience "mean." Remember, meaning is in us. What we are going to attempt is to create that meaning in others. That can't be done without careful consideration of who the audience is. That will include, age, sex, education, experience, income, cultural values to name some of the needed categories. This is an ideal location for your central idea as well as the main ideas you will be covering.
How can more senses be involved? Words (verbal) are detected by hearing. Speak clearly and distinctly at a reasonable pace. It is often very useful to include visual aids: photos and charts for example. In addition, you can convert your "complete outline" into short clear phrases and sentences which can become part of a visual presentation using PowerPoint or other visual presentation software. That way they can see what you are saying while you are saying it. That will involve at least two senses (seeing and hearing) making it easier to follow what you are saying. The nonverbal can be gestures and body movements that underscore what is being shown and said.
What will aid their recall? Numbered sequences, mnemonic devices and actions can be useful to aid your listener to recall what you said. For example: "There are three things that you must recall in order to. . .", "CIGARS will aid you when you are getting ready to takeoff in an airplane. C is for controls. . ." Students in kindergarten are taught letters and sound by combining actions and sounds and the process is very efficient in teaching the alphabet.
I further suggest that you take the time to write out, but not memorize, your introduction. You will find it easier to set the ideas in your mind and analyze the elements you are including. Your brain, having gone over the word choice process once, will do a better job of aiding you to choose your words when standing in front of your audience.
A well thought out introduction will open the minds of your listeners quickly and efficiently. If you lose them at the beginning, you're not likely to get them back ever. Think about what they need and what you need them to think and then give it to them as quickly and clearly as possible.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Two Important Items
These items are key, in many respects, to surviving a speech in front of an audience:
1) Knowing, and
2) A concern for the listener that approaches being a missionary.
Knowing: you will realize that you know beyond doubt when your boss asks you to fill in for him/her. That should give you the perception check you need to accept your knowledge base as being dependable. First, your boss isn't going to select anyone to be their representative anywhere unless there is confidence in their ability. Build on that confidence. When you are chosen to speak it is because there is confidence in your ability. Accept that and build on it.
Missionary: think of your goal as being more important than your ability to avoid mistakes and shine under stress. Instead, think of your knowledge as being something that individuals in the audience need in order to realize their goals. The important thing then is that they hear, be able to recall and use what you are presenting to them. Nothing else should be allowed to supersede that goal.
These two concepts should go a long way to reduce the fear or stage fright that is no natural to most of us.
1) Knowing, and
2) A concern for the listener that approaches being a missionary.
Knowing: you will realize that you know beyond doubt when your boss asks you to fill in for him/her. That should give you the perception check you need to accept your knowledge base as being dependable. First, your boss isn't going to select anyone to be their representative anywhere unless there is confidence in their ability. Build on that confidence. When you are chosen to speak it is because there is confidence in your ability. Accept that and build on it.
Missionary: think of your goal as being more important than your ability to avoid mistakes and shine under stress. Instead, think of your knowledge as being something that individuals in the audience need in order to realize their goals. The important thing then is that they hear, be able to recall and use what you are presenting to them. Nothing else should be allowed to supersede that goal.
These two concepts should go a long way to reduce the fear or stage fright that is no natural to most of us.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
What You'll Need To Know
One of the most feared things in life is to have to make a public address. It isn't that we're stupid, it is instead that we don't want to make a mistake in public and have others think of us as stupid. Even for those who speak to large groups on a regular basis, there is fear (stage fright.) What makes us concerned about the possibility that somehow we will be forced to speak in public.
That's a fair assumption. If you do your job well over time, you will be noticed. If for any reason the boss cannot meet the public speaking appointment, then those under their control will have to make the speech on the corporation's behalf. What I will discuss in the next few blogs is how we can not only survive these events, but thrive.
Most importantly, we will know that we won't be asked to speak in order to embarrass the boss and your corporation. Put another way, if you are asked to speak it will be because they know you know the material to be presented. If you know what to do with the data you already have, then together we can turn the event into a career enhancing performance.
That's a fair assumption. If you do your job well over time, you will be noticed. If for any reason the boss cannot meet the public speaking appointment, then those under their control will have to make the speech on the corporation's behalf. What I will discuss in the next few blogs is how we can not only survive these events, but thrive.
Most importantly, we will know that we won't be asked to speak in order to embarrass the boss and your corporation. Put another way, if you are asked to speak it will be because they know you know the material to be presented. If you know what to do with the data you already have, then together we can turn the event into a career enhancing performance.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
How Things Work
These are the steps of which to be aware when working within a group: orientation, conflict, emergence and reinforcement, and they are discussed in Communications: Principles for a Lifetime by Beebe, Beebe and Ivy. Practice them from this day forward and the likelihood of your success will be increased.
1. Orientation: several questions should come to mind. "Why does this group exist?" "Who are these folk with whom I will be working?" "What is it that we are expected to accomplish?" "Why am I part of this group anyway?"
If any attempt is made to "get things going" without adequate answers to these questions the likelihood of success is reduced. It is usually good to ask questions even though you think you know what you would do in the situation. Without this step how can you be certain that all in the group are trying to achieve the same goal?
2. Conflict: because we are all different there will be conflict. It is the very nature of human contact. The question to answer is, "How do we resolve our conflict?" Conflict will emerge from a wide range of points.
"Who put you in charge, anyway?" "Why are we working on this goal now?" "What makes you think that we can achieve this goal following that plan?" Isn't this plan that was successful in Medford what we need here?" "Why do we need to reinvent the wheel?"
3. Emergence: through discussion, sharing data, and negotiation something comes out that appears to be workable. As the context changes each participant may come to view the goal and the strategies in ways that weren't anticipated. In fact, it is probable that there will be changes out of which a solution may emerge.
As the discussion proceeds, terminology becomes refined and words merge into a new context, which allows each participant to better understand what is happening. New things are being said like: "Now is see what you mean." "I think when we view our goal from this point of view, more of us can agree." "It is a reachable goal and with what we have learned here we can reach it fairly soon." Often some key data turns up as a result of multiple participants discussion. "I think the success of that plan in Medford can be adapted to our situation here."
4. Reinforcement: as progress toward a goal is made it is a good thing to point out. Those who have been outspoken may be more comfortable putting their contributions into a new context. Here is an important place for compliments that are straight forward an honest can payoff. Having achieved goals is almost always a point to celebrate. If social rewards are passed out, it will be good for both the group and the individual. Giving credit where credit is due is an excellent way to put it.
Keep in mind, communication is a process. People are processes. They aren't now what they once were and with proper care and compliments they will be increasingly productive. Our associations one with another is a building process. Future projects will be more successful and easier to achieve because of the mutual reinforcement we practice.Another way to look at it is: there is no end, only process.
1. Orientation: several questions should come to mind. "Why does this group exist?" "Who are these folk with whom I will be working?" "What is it that we are expected to accomplish?" "Why am I part of this group anyway?"
If any attempt is made to "get things going" without adequate answers to these questions the likelihood of success is reduced. It is usually good to ask questions even though you think you know what you would do in the situation. Without this step how can you be certain that all in the group are trying to achieve the same goal?
2. Conflict: because we are all different there will be conflict. It is the very nature of human contact. The question to answer is, "How do we resolve our conflict?" Conflict will emerge from a wide range of points.
"Who put you in charge, anyway?" "Why are we working on this goal now?" "What makes you think that we can achieve this goal following that plan?" Isn't this plan that was successful in Medford what we need here?" "Why do we need to reinvent the wheel?"
3. Emergence: through discussion, sharing data, and negotiation something comes out that appears to be workable. As the context changes each participant may come to view the goal and the strategies in ways that weren't anticipated. In fact, it is probable that there will be changes out of which a solution may emerge.
As the discussion proceeds, terminology becomes refined and words merge into a new context, which allows each participant to better understand what is happening. New things are being said like: "Now is see what you mean." "I think when we view our goal from this point of view, more of us can agree." "It is a reachable goal and with what we have learned here we can reach it fairly soon." Often some key data turns up as a result of multiple participants discussion. "I think the success of that plan in Medford can be adapted to our situation here."
4. Reinforcement: as progress toward a goal is made it is a good thing to point out. Those who have been outspoken may be more comfortable putting their contributions into a new context. Here is an important place for compliments that are straight forward an honest can payoff. Having achieved goals is almost always a point to celebrate. If social rewards are passed out, it will be good for both the group and the individual. Giving credit where credit is due is an excellent way to put it.
Keep in mind, communication is a process. People are processes. They aren't now what they once were and with proper care and compliments they will be increasingly productive. Our associations one with another is a building process. Future projects will be more successful and easier to achieve because of the mutual reinforcement we practice.Another way to look at it is: there is no end, only process.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Teams and Groups
When we stop to think about it, a great deal is accomplished when folk get together and work toward a common goal. I'm certain we have that concept somewhere in our mind. It's important that each person in the group be "on the same page." And it is important that each person is aware of the fact that they belong to something.
"Team means Together Everyone Achieves More!" It isn't known who first said this, and it applies to group activities as well as team efforts. What is often overlooked is "those groups/teams do best that have the best communication skills. As a consequence, businesses are always on the lookout for employees that can work together with others and have excellent communication skills.
Time spent improving out abilities in communication is really time well spent for us individually and for our entire community. Those skills should be put to use all the time so that we can achieve things together that individually would be beyond our reach.
"Team means Together Everyone Achieves More!" It isn't known who first said this, and it applies to group activities as well as team efforts. What is often overlooked is "those groups/teams do best that have the best communication skills. As a consequence, businesses are always on the lookout for employees that can work together with others and have excellent communication skills.
Time spent improving out abilities in communication is really time well spent for us individually and for our entire community. Those skills should be put to use all the time so that we can achieve things together that individually would be beyond our reach.
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
Keep In Mind These Four
When you are previewing your day include some thought (and preparation) for the various contacts you expect or imagine coming your way. It is possible that the most important form of human communication is interpersonal, a dyad. It will aid you in making and maintaining friendships, help you acquire and maintain a job and possibly most importantly help you to gain and maintain your significant other. There are four basic concepts that Donn King suggests will help you to recall areas of needed preparation.
1) Interpersonal communication is inescapable
2) Interpersonal communication is irreversible
3) Interpersonal communication is complicated
4) Interpersonal communication is contextual
Take five minutes to review these and then put them into practice to smooth the road ahead.
Monday, February 06, 2012
Who are you?
Tough question for many of us. "I am what I am," some say. "That's what I am and you'll have to take it or leave it." On the other hand, if our genes, life experiences and thoughts have a bearing on who we are, then we also have a say in who we are and who we want to be. We can shape our future. Julian Baggini during a TED Talk clearly expresses this idea. To view his presentation click on the link above.
We can train our brain in many ways. Explore what you want to be, and then begin the process necessary for you to reach your goal. Try to keep your goals in the reasonable range. I will never be able to run a 4 minute mile, for example. On the other hand, you might be able to.
We can train our brain in many ways. Explore what you want to be, and then begin the process necessary for you to reach your goal. Try to keep your goals in the reasonable range. I will never be able to run a 4 minute mile, for example. On the other hand, you might be able to.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Words Are Powerful
We often hear folk say, "Talk is cheap." In many ways, that is correct. But, it tempts us to ignore the power of words. Take a look at this example found on YouTube and you'll get another impression of the power of words.
The more we think about what we say and how we say it the better off we all will be.
The more we think about what we say and how we say it the better off we all will be.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Who Do You Think You Are?
A question we must ask ourselves over and over again. The reason is simple: we are constantly changing and growing. What we used to think of ourselves is no longer appropriate in many areas.
For example, when we were younger we used to play with our food. Very seldom do you see adults in a restaurants playing with their food. They have changed. They no longer think of food as something to play with.
We must take the time to reexamine ourselves on a regular basis to note and remember the changes that have become part of us. Once we have a good handle on who we think we are, its a good idea to check with others that we know and trust to see if we have a handle on who we really are.
As we grow we will discover that certain things we used to believe are no longer as important as we used to think. That applies to all our attitudes, beliefs and values. That probably means that our behaviors will also be changing. That is a very good thing. What we used to think was funny doesn't seem nearly as funny today. What we thought of as a great meal may no longer meet what we know we should be eating. Things change. . .we change, and we have to keep track
The reason is simple: we are now empowered to say and do things that we were unable to do or say a short time ago. We are also able to say things now that just a short time ago we wouldn't have said and had we tried, those around us wouldn't have paid any attention.
For example, when we were younger we used to play with our food. Very seldom do you see adults in a restaurants playing with their food. They have changed. They no longer think of food as something to play with.
We must take the time to reexamine ourselves on a regular basis to note and remember the changes that have become part of us. Once we have a good handle on who we think we are, its a good idea to check with others that we know and trust to see if we have a handle on who we really are.
As we grow we will discover that certain things we used to believe are no longer as important as we used to think. That applies to all our attitudes, beliefs and values. That probably means that our behaviors will also be changing. That is a very good thing. What we used to think was funny doesn't seem nearly as funny today. What we thought of as a great meal may no longer meet what we know we should be eating. Things change. . .we change, and we have to keep track
The reason is simple: we are now empowered to say and do things that we were unable to do or say a short time ago. We are also able to say things now that just a short time ago we wouldn't have said and had we tried, those around us wouldn't have paid any attention.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
To Assure Success
Since we are all different from each other, because we need one another it is imperative that we find a way to remain forever wrapped in our own skins but still able to accomplish great things together. To do that you need to know as much about yourself and others as possible within your time constraints. The greater the common experiences, including education, the greater the chances that we will be able to resolve the inevitable conflicts thus giving each other the best chance to achieve their goals.
Keep in mind that you are human and it will be impossible not to make premature judgements . . . just don't act on them. Acquire more data (listen). Be certain you have done your best to understand the other person and then taking into consideration who they are, who they think they are, who you are and who you think you are, adapt your communication to the situation. Useful questions which do not appear to be judgmental will be useful, such as: "By that did you mean. . .?" Following these simple ideas you should find that things should be much smoother.
Keep in mind that you are human and it will be impossible not to make premature judgements . . . just don't act on them. Acquire more data (listen). Be certain you have done your best to understand the other person and then taking into consideration who they are, who they think they are, who you are and who you think you are, adapt your communication to the situation. Useful questions which do not appear to be judgmental will be useful, such as: "By that did you mean. . .?" Following these simple ideas you should find that things should be much smoother.
Monday, January 09, 2012
Overall Goal
Since none of us want to waste time and money by not learning useful materials, consider this. If you study, apply and ask questions, you should make rapid progress and improvement in your communication abilities. Start now to follow this suggested plan:
1) study all materials on a daily basis,
2) review what you've studied and practice what you've learned,
3) when no opportunities present themselves to test what you've learned, create some,
4) understand the vocabulary being used in your reading materials as well as discussion,
5) ask for clarification when you're not certain you are on the right track.
If you follow this pattern on a regular basis, no money will be wasted and a grade higher than you expected will likely be earned. Give it a shot.
1) study all materials on a daily basis,
2) review what you've studied and practice what you've learned,
3) when no opportunities present themselves to test what you've learned, create some,
4) understand the vocabulary being used in your reading materials as well as discussion,
5) ask for clarification when you're not certain you are on the right track.
If you follow this pattern on a regular basis, no money will be wasted and a grade higher than you expected will likely be earned. Give it a shot.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Goals
Communication Goals: Work at the pay of our choice.
As we examine important goals in our
lives I think it will become clear that we all want to . . .
1. Live with the person of our
choice.
2. Live in the community of our choice.
2. Live in the community of our choice.
3. Work at the job of our
choice.
4. Work at the level of our choice.
5. Work at the pay of our
choice.
There are
times that you feel at the mercy of the “system.” There are times when you are at the mercy of the system. But, a communication pattern that is well planned can be
extremely valuable. For example, if
you really like what you do and where you live. But, feeling pressure from family, bills and general
attitudes toward your willingness to work for “peanuts” finally gets to
you. Your task becomes increasing
the size of the “peanuts.”
Like almost
all successful communication campaigns, you must plan them. Almost all of them take time to
complete and that indicates that you must think about where you want to be and
then how you are going to get there.
Early on
you must establish that you are the right person for the task and that you
bring “real” value to your employers.
That can be indicated in a number of ways: 1) productivity, 2) problem
solving, 3) willingness to step up at important times, 4) being an effective
part of the your organization’s public relations image, etc. These goals can be set into motion
early in your relationship with your organization. Remember, you can’t get hired if no one knows you
exist. Your value to the
organization can’t be known unless you set into motion a plan that bring
important information to your supervisor’s attention.
Thursday, October 06, 2011
Goals
Communication Goals: Work at the level of our choice.
As we examine important goals in our
lives I think it will become clear that we all want to . . .
1. Live with the person of our
choice.
2. Live in the community of our choice.
2. Live in the community of our choice.
3. Work at the job of our
choice.
4. Work at the level of our
choice.
5. Work at the pay of our
choice.
Work at the
level of our choice. It turns out
that goal is hard to achieve. We
often hear it said that individuals don’t particularly like their jobs but it
pays the bills and provides for great weekends.
Several
pressures are brought to bear on us as we attempt to work at the level of our
choice. One of the first pressures
is almost universal: how much
money can you make being . . . an artist, doctor, contractor, carpenter, and so
on? This question goes to the
heart of employment choices for many of us. For some, job satisfaction is more important than the
pay. For others, pay is more
important than job satisfaction.
If
you decide to become a park ranger, those around you might feel that “you could
do so much better” as a doctor. The
pressure can be terrible. And it
comes from all sides: you feel the
responsibility to care for a family, potential
mates are not certain they want to work at Chaco Cultural National Park or
some other assigned place, parents
see their success through your life and they may have another career in mind
for you.
As
you recall, we are all different.
But, some feel that they are “called” to serve their fellow man doing
something that is clearly obscure to everyone around them. As those who have
been “called” try to make their career decision, the pressure from loved and
trusted people can be overwhelming.
Ultimately, you are the one that is going to have to live with the
choice. You are the one that will
be happy, or miserable in that career.
Monday, October 03, 2011
Goals
Communication Goals: Work at the pay of our choice.
As we examine important goals in our
lives I think it will become clear that we all want to . . .
1. Live with the person of our
choice.
2. Live in the community of our choice.
2. Live in the community of our choice.
3. Work at the job of our
choice.
4. Work at the level of our
choice.
5. Work at the pay of our
choice.
There are
times that you feel at the mercy of they “system.” There
are times when you are at the mercy
of the system. But, a
communication pattern that is well planned can be extremely valuable. For example, you really like what you
do and where you live. But, feeling
pressure from family, bills and general attitudes toward your willingness to
work for “peanuts” finally gets to you.
Increase the size of the peanuts.
Like almost
all successful communication campaigns, you must plan them. Almost all of them take time to
complete and that indicates that you must think about where you want to be and
then how you are going to get there.
Early on
you must establish that you are the right person for the task and that you
bring “real” value to your employers.
That can be indicated in a number of ways: 1) productivity, 2) problem
solving, 3) willingness to step up at important times, 4) clearly an effective
part of the your organization’s public relations image, etc. These goals can be set into motion
early in your relationship with your organization. Remember, you can’t get hired if no one knows you
exist. Your value to the
organization can’t be known unless you set into motion a plan that bring
important information to your supervisor’s attention.
Having
built the campaign and followed it over time, you will be in an excellent
position to head in the direction of the pay
of your choice.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Problem
If we are to be effective citizens, how are we to be able to do that under our present circumstances?
We have discussed the lack of easy access to necessary news
to make it possible for us to inform ourselves. Without an informed electorate our way of life is in
danger. Recently, in an interview
with Ted Koppel, a well-known TV newsperson, underlines the danger that the
current system in the USA has created for us all. Our media now provides profits for owners by providing us
with what we want to know and see.
Nobody is in the business of
providing us with what we need to know.
That leaves the task up to us individually.
Goals
Communication Goals: Live in the community of our choice
As we examine important goals in our
lives I think it will become clear that we all want to . . .
1. Live with the person of our
choice.
2. Live in the community of our choice.
2. Live in the community of our choice.
3. Work at the job of our
choice.
4. Work at the level of our
choice.
5. Work at the pay of our
choice.
None of us
would like to have some person or agency assign us a place to live. Instead, what we want to do is live
where we want to. That has the
best chance of happening if you are skilled at communication. In order to live in a community we have
know about the place and then have a way to support ourselves in that
community. Once we have selected
the community and moved in, changes occur that may or may not suit you. The one constant in communication is
change.
In order
for any community to stay “on course”, those who live there must use their best
skills to keep the community on track.
You want the best possible schools for your children, the safest
movement of traffic, good clean water, etc. These things don’t just
happen. They are shaped and adopted
because of the people who live there.
Since you are going to be one of them, you have responsibilities to make
sure that the community succeeds.
Most communities deteriorate because they are allowed to. The best way to destroy an effective
community is to do nothing.
In this
case, “doing,” means acquiring information through communication, processing
the information and then attempting to apply the result to your community. Verbal and nonverbal communications are
basic to the process. The larger
the community is the greater the need for groups of people to successfully
communicate. When this coalition
works there is the best possible chance that you can describe the community as
successful.
(Don’t
forget that throughout this community improvement process it is critical that
you continue to use your communication skills to build your interpersonal
relationships. The need for that
process never dies.)
Small
changes in a community can drastically change the community. For example, if those who are very
influential to the maintenance of the community move away, the entire process
may falter and leave the community in shambles.
Where you
live will inevitably affect where you work. This affect will influence your ability to achieve the “job
of your choice.” In addition, your effectiveness in the community of your
choice may affect your professional position. It is nearly impossible to separate your life into
non-overlapping units. Keep in
mind, you may be the best person for any job, but if those hiring don’t know
you exist you won’t get hired. The
process of informing the world who you are never stops.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Goals
Communication Goals: Live with the person of our choice
As we examine important goals in our lives I think it will become clear that we all want to . . .
1. Live with the person of our choice.
2. Live in the community of our choice.
3. Work at the job of our choice.
4. Work at the level of our choice.
5. Work at the pay of our choice.
As each of us has matured, we have looked around to find someone that we think would be rewarding to live with and that might be willing to live with us. We are looking for someone that we want to do everything with. It turns out, that can be a really tough job. But, it often is the underlying goal that keeps us actively searching. I view this goal as being the number one goal for most of us. We want to, "Live with the person of our choice."
Immediately we have several problems. Some choices are great from a distance and horrible up close. Some think we’re inconsequential and unimportant. Some think we’re just fine and would like to count us as friends for life. The question is, how to let them know who we are and what we want to be. How do we find out what they are “really” like and what they will be in the long run?
Communication helps us find the answers to those questions. Whether the communication is verbal or nonverbal, it is important. If we’re going to deliberately reach our goal, we are going to have to understand as much as possible about communicating. For example, we watch folk to see what kinds of things they spend their time and resources doing in hopes of understanding who they are. We listen to them because we think that they will talk about what is in their mind and what they hope to accomplish in their lifetime. These are important items if the two of you are going to be able live together.
Who we are is often a reflection of those we came from. Knowing the family then can have an impact on your actions. Knowing the culture they represent and your ability to fit into that culture is important. Agreeing on what a man or woman is can make a huge difference. Knowledge, acquired through communication is our only real hope.
Or, we could look at communication this way: everything we do or say allows others to know us. On the other side everything they do or say allows us to know them. So, the question boils down to what do you do and say when trying to make a proper presentation of who you are? You can’t control what they do or say and so it is an unbalanced situation. The best answer to this imbalance is to allow time to pass so you can get a better idea of who they are.
Basic rule: relationships are either growing or shrinking. There is no way to put them on a shelf and have them remain intact. They are improving or falling apart all the time.
As we examine important goals in our lives I think it will become clear that we all want to . . .
1. Live with the person of our choice.
2. Live in the community of our choice.
3. Work at the job of our choice.
4. Work at the level of our choice.
5. Work at the pay of our choice.
As each of us has matured, we have looked around to find someone that we think would be rewarding to live with and that might be willing to live with us. We are looking for someone that we want to do everything with. It turns out, that can be a really tough job. But, it often is the underlying goal that keeps us actively searching. I view this goal as being the number one goal for most of us. We want to, "Live with the person of our choice."
Immediately we have several problems. Some choices are great from a distance and horrible up close. Some think we’re inconsequential and unimportant. Some think we’re just fine and would like to count us as friends for life. The question is, how to let them know who we are and what we want to be. How do we find out what they are “really” like and what they will be in the long run?
Communication helps us find the answers to those questions. Whether the communication is verbal or nonverbal, it is important. If we’re going to deliberately reach our goal, we are going to have to understand as much as possible about communicating. For example, we watch folk to see what kinds of things they spend their time and resources doing in hopes of understanding who they are. We listen to them because we think that they will talk about what is in their mind and what they hope to accomplish in their lifetime. These are important items if the two of you are going to be able live together.
Who we are is often a reflection of those we came from. Knowing the family then can have an impact on your actions. Knowing the culture they represent and your ability to fit into that culture is important. Agreeing on what a man or woman is can make a huge difference. Knowledge, acquired through communication is our only real hope.
Or, we could look at communication this way: everything we do or say allows others to know us. On the other side everything they do or say allows us to know them. So, the question boils down to what do you do and say when trying to make a proper presentation of who you are? You can’t control what they do or say and so it is an unbalanced situation. The best answer to this imbalance is to allow time to pass so you can get a better idea of who they are.
Basic rule: relationships are either growing or shrinking. There is no way to put them on a shelf and have them remain intact. They are improving or falling apart all the time.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Impromptu
There are, of course, times when someone presents you with an impromptu topic and you have to address the question. They will happen throughout your lifetime. But, the good news is that with more life experience you will be able to handle these questions with greater ability.
On the other hand, there are those who really enjoy asking questions that are "off the cuff" for roughly the same reason surprise parties exist: to see how you handle the situation. It is true that how you handle the "situation" reveals quite a bit about who you are and how you solve problems. But, there are times when you have no desire at all to have folk "prying" around inside your brain just so they can see what makes you tick.
If you like putting your best foot forward, then you should join me in thinking that impromptu topics are extremely dangerous. Especially in such situations as job interviews, new and important relationships and important unusual situations. The question is simple: "In this situation, how can I appear to be better than I really am." The least you can hope for is, "I don't want this situation to make me appear less competent than I really am."
So, how should the impromptu situation be handled? Anticipation: thinking and planning ahead is a habit of successful people. You should be able to anticipate many impromptu topics and then prepare for the occasion. The more you can anticipate the better your chances of appearing to be "brighter and more intelligent" than you really are.
Plan (outline and rehears) the content of your response to each impromptu question you can anticipate. Know what content you will use to address the topic that appears suddenly. Don't plan the words, but instead follow the same path you would if you had ample time to prepare your address. In short, you should prepare an extemporaneous speech in which you have the content under control and you choose the words needed at the time you answer the question.
Avoid making impromptu speeches whenever possible and in place of them give appropriate extemporaneous speeches. You'll be ahead of the game.
On the other hand, there are those who really enjoy asking questions that are "off the cuff" for roughly the same reason surprise parties exist: to see how you handle the situation. It is true that how you handle the "situation" reveals quite a bit about who you are and how you solve problems. But, there are times when you have no desire at all to have folk "prying" around inside your brain just so they can see what makes you tick.
If you like putting your best foot forward, then you should join me in thinking that impromptu topics are extremely dangerous. Especially in such situations as job interviews, new and important relationships and important unusual situations. The question is simple: "In this situation, how can I appear to be better than I really am." The least you can hope for is, "I don't want this situation to make me appear less competent than I really am."
So, how should the impromptu situation be handled? Anticipation: thinking and planning ahead is a habit of successful people. You should be able to anticipate many impromptu topics and then prepare for the occasion. The more you can anticipate the better your chances of appearing to be "brighter and more intelligent" than you really are.
Plan (outline and rehears) the content of your response to each impromptu question you can anticipate. Know what content you will use to address the topic that appears suddenly. Don't plan the words, but instead follow the same path you would if you had ample time to prepare your address. In short, you should prepare an extemporaneous speech in which you have the content under control and you choose the words needed at the time you answer the question.
Avoid making impromptu speeches whenever possible and in place of them give appropriate extemporaneous speeches. You'll be ahead of the game.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Extemporaneous Delivery
Extemporaneous delivery is probably worth as much time as you can afford to spend on the project. By extemporaneous we mean you know what you are going to say and you have the content well in mind. You have organized the data appropriately for your listeners and when the time comes for you to speak, you choose your words while you are speaking.
Aristotle thought that between content and delivery, delivery was not nearly as important. Demosthenes on the other hand felt that delivery is critical. Personally I think that excellent content excellently delivered should be the goal. In life, you will most often be asked to speak on things about which you are well informed. Your biggest problem will be matching the audience to you and your topic. That will guide you in what to include, while you are narrowing your topic. Then the order in which you have been most successful talking to others about the topic.
Task: establish a central idea and type it across a blank page in your word processor, and save it to your desktop. Whenever you think of something that should be included in your presentation, open the document and add it. As potential main ideas occur to you, add them. As supportive material occurs to you, add them under the appropriate main idea. Out of this will grow your fairly detailed outline.
Practice: examine your materials, adjust them to fit you, your audience and the occasion. Let the rough outline sit for a time and then go over your materials and set a final version of the outline. Use that outline to build the visual materials (PowerPoint, Keynote, etc.) you will need to clearly make your points. Remember, the more ways you can simultaneously say a thing the easier it will be for your audience to understand and retain what you are saying. Remember, in the "real" world you will be asked to say to a large group things you have already been saying to individuals and small groups. You have practiced your speech. More practice won't hurt and could help.
Delivery: get to your location early, setup and test everything. Once you stand up and begin realize that there is nothing more you can do to prepare. Your only concern now is that the audience will understand and be able to recall and use what you are saying. It isn't important that you are perfect in appearance or delivery. . .only that the audience understands, can recall and use your content. You are at this point more like a missionary than anything else: only concerned about the audience.
Afterwards: what kinds of questions are asked? What might you have done to make clearer what you were trying to say. Make notes and then make repairs, because it is likely that you'll be asked to do this again fairly soon.
Don't forget to make available leave behinds. Be certain that your contact information is clearly part of the leave behind.
Aristotle thought that between content and delivery, delivery was not nearly as important. Demosthenes on the other hand felt that delivery is critical. Personally I think that excellent content excellently delivered should be the goal. In life, you will most often be asked to speak on things about which you are well informed. Your biggest problem will be matching the audience to you and your topic. That will guide you in what to include, while you are narrowing your topic. Then the order in which you have been most successful talking to others about the topic.
Task: establish a central idea and type it across a blank page in your word processor, and save it to your desktop. Whenever you think of something that should be included in your presentation, open the document and add it. As potential main ideas occur to you, add them. As supportive material occurs to you, add them under the appropriate main idea. Out of this will grow your fairly detailed outline.
Practice: examine your materials, adjust them to fit you, your audience and the occasion. Let the rough outline sit for a time and then go over your materials and set a final version of the outline. Use that outline to build the visual materials (PowerPoint, Keynote, etc.) you will need to clearly make your points. Remember, the more ways you can simultaneously say a thing the easier it will be for your audience to understand and retain what you are saying. Remember, in the "real" world you will be asked to say to a large group things you have already been saying to individuals and small groups. You have practiced your speech. More practice won't hurt and could help.
Delivery: get to your location early, setup and test everything. Once you stand up and begin realize that there is nothing more you can do to prepare. Your only concern now is that the audience will understand and be able to recall and use what you are saying. It isn't important that you are perfect in appearance or delivery. . .only that the audience understands, can recall and use your content. You are at this point more like a missionary than anything else: only concerned about the audience.
Afterwards: what kinds of questions are asked? What might you have done to make clearer what you were trying to say. Make notes and then make repairs, because it is likely that you'll be asked to do this again fairly soon.
Don't forget to make available leave behinds. Be certain that your contact information is clearly part of the leave behind.
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