Communication is key. This is said so often it’s almost cliché. Yet, it is true. I think it forms the basis of the reality around us. We can exchange because we agree that this means that and that means this. Even in different forms of communication, be it different languages or verbal versus non-verbal, there are things that translate into each other. Therefore, communication is key.
I was having a conversation with someone and it got me to thinking about genuine communication. You know when you get a letter, either at your job or school or whatever, and it’s a generalized letter from someone at the top of the bureaucracy? You know, the one that has the same exact stamped signature as the last letter you get from that person. You know that letter is not specifically for you, so you read it for the pertinent information and throw that shit out. However, when you get a letter that refers to you and at the bottom the signature is obviously in ink and signed personally by the person, the exchange takes on a whole other level.
If you are in a position of leadership and you have to exchange with all of these people that work with you, for you, and/or under you, the way in which you tailor your communication (be it in person, over the phone, or e-mail/letter) will dictate how that person reacts and evolves with you. Now multiply that effect by the number of people that you deal with and think about how your ability to be genuine with someone can make or break an endeavor.
Shiiiiiit, I’ve never been much of a team player, or so I tell myself. Yet, I like that little descriptor “works well with others”. I like people. I like being around people and I like having positive experiences with people. It is something that I have found to be important to my growth and to my ability to work effectively.
What I realized during the conversation was that I was doing that at work without thinking about it, or thinking too much about it. What were to happen if I took the time to sit down and sort of write through it? For example, write down each person I work with and what motivates them, what I observe about them, and how they communicate. Then I solidify my interaction with this person so that I can keep the communication genuine, but a bit more structured so that it clears up energy for evolution and forward progress. It’s not that relationships don’t progress in and of themselves, but maybe a little planning could go a long way.
Our lives are a powerful and unique experience. I’ve always just kept it moving from one experience to the other. I do it without thinking about it. I live my life. It’s a strength and a weakness. I wonder what were to happen if I just plan things out just a little bit more. Like the way I communicate with people. What are the possibilities?