In the previous post we explored the combo of “factual intelligence” and “emotional intelligence” that you apply to be more effective in your messaging to others. The question posed by a reader was, “How do I communicate better to succeed?”
“So, clarity in our own minds is the starting point in our quest to be more successful in our work and personal conversations.
Being smarter in interpersonal communication – the sharing of information that goes on between people and the way it is done, may be your answer here.
Get clear on your thinking and your expressions of it will follow. If you are not getting the responses you want, write it out privately to yourself – on paper, in great detail and at length – write lots and for a few days in a row. Where and how and when did communication not go as you wanted? Once you find the honest answer, fix it!
Everyone: locals, immigrants and even practiced coaches, writers and speakers undertake this challenge. Often.
I found myself in such a challenge when I moved from Winnipeg to Vancouver. Despite being a communication specialist, it was a bit rough not having familiar touchstones to rely on or for feedback.
Imagine the adventure in a new language as well as location!
When we are on holiday, our accents and vocabulary and grammar mistakes have been called ‘cute’ or ‘charming’. They reveal our newness in a place and can even be appealing. Often, they elicit empathy and help from others.
English language challenges, here in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia are like those in any language or culture, Canadian or global. They can quickly turn to frustration. People trying to fit in permanently in a workplace or a community desire the shift from frustration to finesse. If communication mastery is not immediately available, then at least confidence in sending and receiving messages in their new social situations.
Join us for more on questions answered on the English language and questions about learning in social situations in the upcoming post.
About Helena Kaufman