In a time of many, fast, short messages, the importance of good communication seems to be getting snowed down a bit. With this method of communication, the message does not always come across well and quantity threatens to prevail over quality. Many short and fast messages is the trend. People probably understand what we want to convey, we assume.
The importance of good, clear communication is now perhaps greater than ever, precisely because society, trends, and the market are changing very quickly and there are so many options. Choice stress, multitasking; it all results into that we read too briefly and communicate with more difficulty. Miscommunication is lurking.
Put communication first!
Strong communication with employees and customers is necessary for a successful business. In a fast-paced 24-hour economy, where people are flooded with information and messages every day, thus good communication requires a specific approach. Short but meaningless messages, or far too long and extensive emails rarely convey the message. In your external communication you must ensure that the messages you send to your customers are not too long but, above all, clear.
Be clear in your message, tell what you can do for your customer, do what you promise, and clearly state what you need or expect from the customer. The same applies to internal communication with your employees, so be clear.
How do you ensure that your message is clear?
Avoid communication that is too subtle or indirect. By being aware of your communication pitfalls, you can communicate more clearly.
The message is stronger and you work more purposefully.
Five tips for a clear message
- Make sure you know what you want to say. The clearer you have it in your mind, the better you can convey it.
- Make sure you tell the right person. That may sound like an open door, but too often we ask others to pass something on to the person for whom the message is, instead of saying it directly themselves. Unknowingly, the messenger gives his own color to the message and it comes across to the recipient less clearly.
- Briefly summarize what your real message is. Summarize it by saying, “So, I’d like it if you / we …” or “So I’m going to get started with you …” Check this way to see if your question, request or promise has come across. (perception checking)
- Better yet: confirm the agreements made or the request in writing via e-mail. This way no misunderstandings can arise in this sequence only. Better is always to talk first and then only afterwards send e-mails. The other person also has the opportunity to indicate that he has understood it differently.
- Introduce what you want to say. Being too direct often comes across as a bit lost, so that the other is more concerned with wondering why you say it than what you say. Therefore introduce your question or announcement. Briefly but firmly explain why you came to the other recipient person for this.
Do you want to know more about how I can help you with communication in your company? Then contact me without obligation.