Tuesday 15 July 2014

The Shortest Possible Course in Communication

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Everyone is busy and pressed for time, but we all want to make an impact—so here is the shortest course in communication I can give you.
The seven most important words:
I am sorry I made a mistake.
The six most important words:
I will learn to listen better.
The five most important words:
I truly believe in you.
The four most important words:
What do you think?
The three most important words:
I appreciate you!
The two most important words:
Thank you.
The one most important word:
We
And the last, least important, word:
I
If you want to have impact—if you truly want to make a difference—don’t let the world just hear you speak, but communicate through everything you do.
Be the kind of leader who holds it together. When times are tough (and they will be), be the kind of leader who does their best. But when you make mistakes (and you will make many), be the first to admit your mistake and say you are sorry.
Be the kind of leader who understands that listening is better than speaking. Too often we underestimate the power of the listening ear. Just to listen can be the greatest act of caring, with the biggest impact on connection.
Be the kind of leader who shows caring. The closest thing to being cared for is to care for someone else. Show appreciation and gratitude to others, speak up when you see hard work, and recognize effort.
Be the kind of leader who takes time on the busiest day. Never be too busy to appreciate others, to say, “Good job—I’m proud of you.” Gratitude inspires people to do great things.
Be the kind of leadership who celebrates in teamwork and collaboration.The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team. Be the kind of leader who engages with and is curious about each member, and set an example of open collaboration.
Be the kind of leader who puts we ahead of me. Don’t be the kind of leader who speaks in the terms of I and me. It is a simple but fundamental truth that by binding together as a single force each of us will remain strong and unconquerable.
Lead From Within: Leadership is far from simple. Sometimes we need quick reminders that communication is essential if we want to make a difference. What you say matters, and everything you do says something.

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