Picture this: you’re at work and trying to explain to Steve (a co-worker) how a new software program works.
You think you’re giving directions that are clear, however, Steve is getting fidgety. Then he turns red in the face and then gets so frustrated that he blurts out…
“JUST STOP! Save the mumbo jumbo would ya? Just explain it to me …IN PLAIN ENGLISH!”
So much for clear huh?
Or pretend for a moment that you just gave a presentation at work.
You’re feeling pretty much like ya nailed it.
You go back to your desk, pop open your email and WHAM, you see this message from your boss.
“There was just no structure to your presentation. No beginning, middle, or end. There were a few “nuggets” buried deep within which might have been helpful, but most of it was nonsense .”
OUCH.
Whether you’re talking to one person or a group, I’m betting that you’re not going for reactions like these.
But… what happens if you switch roles?
What if you’re Steve and all you want to know is how to work the new software so you can turn your report in on time?
What if you’re the boss and you just spent your time listening to a presentation that had zero structure and no point?
Changes your perspective, huh?
Here’s the deal: when you’re talking, there’s one thing people (if they’re listening) want more than anything else.
They want to understand.
In other words, gain the most information with the least amount of effort.
You can do that.
You can make whatever you’re talking about easier for someone to understand, and you can avoid the pain of the situations above.
It takes time, effort and willingness to think about other people and to learn how they understand best.
Is it worth it?
You tell me…
PS
Steve and The Boss are fictional characters I made up sitting here in my blogging chair. If you’re a Boss, or a Steve, or a Boss named Steve no offense is intended!