Change Your Professional Life with One Simple Communication Shift
Hello, Changemakers!
Today, I am writing about something I have wanted to do for days. I will unpack a super golden nugget for your career growth: simplifying our communication. That’s it! So simple!
But let’s make it more interesting and comprehend the power that simple things can hold. In my adventures through digital marketing, journalism, and steering communications for EU projects, I’ve discovered that clarity is the ace in our professional deck!
So, please go ahead and tell me in the comments below: have you ever felt like your message got lost in translation during a meeting, or noticed your emails don’t quite hit the mark? Let me tell you that you are not the only one. Ta-daa! 🎉
No, seriously, you’re not alone. In a world bombarded with information, the ability to express your ideas clearly and concisely isn’t just nice; it’s actually, ABSOLUTELY essential, maybe even critical.
Meet Your New Best Friend: Clarity
Simplicity should be your go-to strategy. 🚨 I am not talking about removing depth from your ideas but honing them to their essence. Ditch the jargon and complex explanations. Focus on the heart of your message.
The more straightforward your message, the better it will connect.
The clearer your communication, the more it makes sense.
A career-changing moment for me was realizing how to make complex marketing strategies understandable and engaging.
By using simple, relatable analogies and clear visuals, my ideas began to click with others. The team engagement and productivity were completely transformed.
Before sending that next email or starting your presentation, ask yourself:
"What's the one thing I want my audience to remember?"
Build everything around that central idea.
Simplifying your delivery is, above all, about showing you care. Respecting your audience’s time and mental energy can build trust and deepen connections.
Here’s a fun, unexpected tip: Did you know staying hydrated could sharpen your communication? Yes, sipping water isn't just good for your health; it's great for your speech clarity and mental agility.
So, next time you’re gearing up for a presentation, grab a glass of water, your brain (and audience) will thank you!
Extra Tips for Sharper Communication:
Practice Active Listening
Understand and reflect on what others are saying before responding. This ensures you address their comments accurately and thoughtfully.
Keep It Visual
Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words, especially if it saves you from writing a thousand-word email. Use diagrams and charts. Not only do they look smart, but they might also save you from another meeting.😉
Ask for Feedback
After meetings or presentations, ask colleagues for feedback on your communication style. This can provide insights into how well your message is being understood and what can be improved.
Your Message
Consider the background and expertise of your audience. Adjust your complexity and terminology accordingly to ensure clarity and engagement.
Follow Up
Sending a follow-up email after a meeting is like sending a thank you note after a dinner party, it shows you’re classy and you care about the digestion of what was served (in this case, the information!). 🍝
If you’ve got ideas, feedback, or a story to share, I’d love to hear from you. Share it with me, I might feature it in the next edition. 🧙♀️
If you enjoyed this newsletter, why not share it with someone who'd appreciate it, too? And if you want to keep these tips and ideas coming straight to your inbox, make sure to subscribe! :)
Until next time👋 ,
Christiana Nikolopoulou
Founder, Digital Discourse
