How to Tell Them Just Enough. You know I’m fascinated by words. I’m always happy to learn a new one. And this one particularly delighted me. Breviloquent. We can guess straight away what it means, can’t we? But just in case, Wordsmith tells us “breviloquent” is an adjective meaning: Using few words. It’s not just about keeping our talk short, however. The real issue isn’t clock time, it’s value.
Genuine Connection in a Digital World. “It’s as much about the energy you project as it is about the content of what you say,” said a wise woman. Oh wait, that wise woman was me! And I said it on Thought Leaders Talk Business, the podcast Debbie Fliehman hosts.
Debbie and I had a terrific conversation about a huge challenge for professional people, whether we labor for a multinational corporation, a small local business, or hang out a shingle on our own. How do we communicate with authenticity and impact in an increasingly virtual world?
Where are you shining your spotlight? It showed up again the other night. A friend was telling me a story as we sat at the restaurant, and her eyes never met mine. From the moment she began to describe what happened, she gazed up and to the right, disconnecting from me. It’s a common habit. It might be yours. Here’s why it’s a problem. Imagine your face as a spotlight. Every time you start a conversation you shine that spotlight somewhere. You’ll have more impact if you shine it on the people you’re talking with.
Are You Asking them or Telling them? I had a chance to tour a beautiful new apartment building. My guide was a young woman whose job depends on people like me saying, “Yes! I love it. When can I move in?” It wasn’t the only reason I won’t be moving there, of course. But the way she talked sure did make an impression. Not a positive one. Everything she said sounded like she was asking me instead of telling me. You know, with that questioning tone at the end of each sentence. Linguists call it the high-rising terminal. I call it annoying.
Does what you say make an impact? Making sure every word really lands is more important than ever. Because in general, we’re using fewer words! That means if you want to have any influence at all, you need to speak in a way that really connects, drives your point home, and stays with your listeners over time. Here’s what’s going on when it comes to talking …
