Because only you know what you are trying to say, it’s your job to make sure that the person you’re communicating with understands what you’re trying to tell them. That means selecting words, metaphors, and a tone they “get.” Maybe you’ve got a favorite way of explaining things, but if your listener doesn’t get it, all you’ve done is say a lot of stuff.
Here are some tips:
- Consider how the other person sees things or what they already know.
- Avoid words or phrases that are jargon, easily misunderstood, or tend to be “hot buttons.”
- Give your listener a chance to digest the information, then ask for feedback.
- Ask what they heard or think about what you said.
- If the listener doesn’t understand your message, repeat it differently.
Effective communication only happens when what we say matches what the other person hears.
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