If you want to be a better communicator or a better
leader, you can’t depend on dumb luck. You must learn to connect with others by
making the most of whatever skills and experience you have. When I listen to
great communicators, I notice that there are a handful of factors they seem to
draw upon that cause people to listen to them.
Relationships—Who You KnowOne of the quickest ways to gain credibility with an individual, a group, or an audience is to borrow it from someone who already has credibility with them. It’s the basis of sales referrals and word-of-mouth advertising. “Who” you know can open the door for you to connect with someone. Of course, once the door is open, you still have to deliver!
Insight—What You Know
Most people want to improve their situation in life.
When they find someone who can communicate something of value, they will
usually listen. If what they learn really helps, a sense of connection between
them can often quickly develop.
Success—What You Have Done
America has a success culture. People want to be
successful, and they seek out others who have accomplished something to get
their advice. If you are successful in anything you do, there will be people
who will want to listen to you.
Ability—What You Can Do
Individuals who perform at a high level in their
profession often have instant credibility with others. People admire them, they
want to be like them, and they feel connected to them. When they speak, others
listen—even if the area of their skill has nothing to do with the advice they
give.
Sacrifice—How You Have Lived
Mother Teresa had the respect and the ear of leaders
around the world. People of all faiths seemed to admire her. Why was that? Why
did they listen to her—a poor, diminutive schoolteacher who lived in the slums
in India? Because of the life of sacrifice she lived.
