5 Vital Tools for Postive, Productive, and Clear Communication

     Talking about communication can easily be a multi-part series; however, this entry and the October 28, 2013 Make the Change podcast serve to highlight 5 Vital Tools for Positive, Productive, and Clear Communication the high points, give you a few effective tips to help improve your communication, and maybe even approach how you give and receive communication from a different perspective.

Why do I want/need Positive, Productive, and Clear Communication?
     We all need less stress and more effective production in life, both personally and professionally.  If we spent less time dealing with "drama", just think how much more productive and effective we can be each day.  "Drama" is generally the result of misunderstood, improperly delivered, or lack of communication.  As you read below, remember that your personality, where you come from, your views and values, as well as, the culture you live in (to name just a couple of the factors) all affect how you deliver and receive communication.

What is Communication? 
      Google defines communication as "the imparting or exchanging of information or news" and "the means of connection between people or places.."

We Communicate in 3 ways; Verbal, Nonverbal, and Written
     Communication is not only what you say and how you say it; it can be how you dress, the company you keep, the music you listen to, the care you drive, etc.  Most importantly, its how a particular person, group, culture perceives your words, actions, and writing.

5 Vital Tools for Positive, Productive, and Clear Communication
      
1. Assume Positive Intent - People generally wake up and pledge to do their best each day, they don't usually set out to aggravate and frustrate you.  Practice patience and when all else fails, remind yourself to assume positive intent.  
      
2. Practice Tolerance - This does not mean to change or alter your message, but to understand that not everyone sees the whole as you do; therefore, your message may not be received or believed.
      
3. Assess your Audience and change the way you deliver your message - This does not mean to alter your views or values, but to adapt your delivery to the audience.
      
4. Analyze you Message before you communicate it - be critical, inquisitive of yourself.  Analyze how you believe the message will be received and anticipate the questions or resistance you may receive.  The "play by play" will likely be different than you imagine it, but you will be prepared and handle any situation with confidence.  
       
5. Have Confidence and own your message - verbal, nonverbal, or written.  If you don't believe in it, why should anyone else believe it.