How many of you remember playing with telephones made out of cups or cans and a piece of string? I know I’m showing my age but it is okay…..it is a great memory even though it doesn’t have a lot to do with today’s message.
What kind of communicator are you? By definition a communicator is “someone who is especially skilled at conveying information, ideas, or policy to the public”. The truth is that just because you are conveying information it doesn’t mean that you are doing it in a positive way.
Here are some tips that was shared by a fellow Thirty One sister…
1. Shout Praise, Whisper Criticism. This phrase comes from the original Olympic Dream Team and Detroit Pistons coaches Chuck Daily and Brendan Suhr. They praised in public and constructively criticizing in private. Shouting praise means you recognize someone in front of their peers and whispering criticism means you coach them to get better. Both build better people and teams.
2. Smile More. When you share a real smile it not only produces more serotonin in your brain but in the brain of the recipient of your smile. Just by smiling at someone you are giving them a dose of serotonin, an anti-depressant. As a positive communicator you can make someone feel better just by smiling.
3. Don’t Complain. When you complain you lose power, effectiveness and credibility as a communicator and leader. Most complaining is toxic and sabotages you and your team. Afterwards you feel better but everyone around you feels sick.
4. Encourage. We all need encouragement. Positive communicators encourage and inspire others to do more and become more than they ever thought possible. Great communicators are great encouragers.
5. Sometimes You Have to Listen More and Talk Less. Positive communicators don’t just talk. They listen. They ask questions and really listen. Positive communicators make others feel important by listening to them and truly hearing what they have to say.
6. Welcome Feedback. Positive communicators listen to and welcome ideas or suggestions on how they can improve. They don’t fear criticism. They welcome it knowing it makes them better. They send a clear signal to their team, customers, coaches, etc. that they are always willing to learn, improve and grow. Positive communicators say “I’m open. Make me better. Let’s get better together.”
7. Celebrate Success. Positive communicators focus on what went right during the day and NOT what went wrong. They celebrate their successes, even the small ones, knowing that small wins lead to big wins.
8. Give High Fives, Handshakes, Pats on the Back, Fist Bumps and Hugs When Appropriate. Positive communication is also physical. Studies have shown the benefits of physical contact between doctors and patients, teachers and students and professional athletes. I’m a hugger… what about you?
Make a difference in the lives of others by being a positive communicator…..
Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!
Hope Wissel 