Have you ever been misunderstood? It's an awful experience, to say the least. People might think negatively of you or your message might cause harm to others due to misinformation. Misunderstanding might also lead to conflict poor output.
It's one thing to be misunderstood, it's another to misunderstand others. Have you ever talked to someone who gives vague instructions and incomplete information? Instead of speeding up the process, you need to fill in the gaps just to make sense of the conversation.
There are seven things to consider when we communicate with people. Whether it's writing an email, sending a report, facilitating a meeting, or presenting a lesson, our day is often spent mostly communicating.
This is one of the lessons I learned in my Stress and Conflict Management class and I want it to share with you. This is also known as the Seven C's of Communication.
To minimize misunderstanding and communicate your message clearly and effectively, remember these things:
Be CLEAR
This is one of my major blunders in communicating. I love to tell stories. But to be understood, we need to make our key point stand out. We should minimize the number of ideas we talk about in a sentence. What is the main point you are talking about? If you're writing a message, one idea per sentence is ideal. Don't beat around the bush. Be clear.
Be CONCISE
My writing mentor reminds me to economize my words. In my college journalism days, we're told to KISS - Keep It Short and Simple (others coin it as "Keep It Simple, Stupid!"). Avoid repetition and use adjectives sparingly. Same with filler words.
Note: Experienced editors know that this whole blog can still be simplified and improved.
Be CONCRETE
Details are important, but too much of it will drown your message out. Communicate in a way that your audience will have a clear and concrete picture of what you are telling them. You want them to see what you are seeing, for both of you to be on the same page, so make sure that you focus on your key message.
Be CORRECT
You don't want to communicate erroneous messages, so it is due diligence to double-check for mistakes when you send out information. Error-free communications look professional and polished, as well as gives you the impression that you can be relied on. You don't want to be tagged as a fake news spreader, right?
Be COHERENT
Sometimes we stumble upon messages that don't seem to connect. When you send out communications, make sure that it is logical and coherent. Details should support and are relevant to your main topic. It makes your message easy to understand because it is organized and consistent with what you are trying to say.
Be COMPLETE
Leave the cliffhangers for the movies. Don't let your audience jump to conclusions by providing all the necessary information needed. When sending information about a meeting, be specific. Tell them the time, purpose, location, who are involved, and what they need to bring to the table if any. People will have a hard time making an informed decision or take valuable action when they are supplied with incomplete information.
Be COURTEOUS
To be courteous means to be respectful of your audience. Avoid hidden insults or sarcastic tones. Be friendly and honest, and let your integrity and genuine concern be seen in the way you communicate. Courtesy is one of the ways we are different from animals when it comes to communicating. Let it be shown. Learn how to empathize.
Final Thoughts
I am grateful for these lessons, especially since I write on both print and digital platforms. I also communicate with people when given a chance to preach. I communicate a lot.
I have written an article specifically for writers as communicators. You may read it here: What Makes an Effective Writer
Do you have other tips on making your message clear and effective? Write it down in the comments below!
Read my other BCH-related blogs:
Bitcoin Cash Changed not only my Routine but also my Perspective
Installing BCH Payment Channel on my Blog (and eStore) A Success!
Hi, I am Marts! I am a writer, and aside from my stint here in read.cash, I also have my own blog - martsvalenzuela.com. I appreciate it if you pay me a visit! I plan on growing my readership as I learn to improve my craft and journey towards my passion to write and publish books that add value to people.
Let's rock!
