6th August 2012
Speak clearly, if you speak at all; carve every word before you let it fall.
Oliver Wendell Holmes. Jr.
Many times we mistake communication as speaking. They are two different things. A computer can speak and so does a tape recorder! But they cannot communicate. During my career as the head of human resources department, I noticed that the most critical factor which distinguished successful executives from not so successful is their ability to communicate. A good communication can make or break a career.
Watch the media ads and notice how carefully words are being used to communicate the business intent. It will be a good idea to hearse what you want to speak and then speak. In fact, decide if you have to speak at all. In a meeting, your words should be so precious that others wait to hear you.
Avoid using unnecessary words. When one word will convey the meaning, why use two? Check if you are conveying the intent and the content of the message you have in mind.
It may sound funny, but sincerely do this exercise over the next one month. Buy a recording machine and speak for fifteen minutes on any topic and play it back. Listen to every word you spoke and evaluate your effectiveness.
Do this exercise diligently and notice the improvement in your communication ability!
N C Sridharan
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