Part 5: Influencing Through Communication
Continuing with the qualitative elements of communicating a vision or message, studies performed by Albert Mehrabian in his book Silent Messages show that people will always believe what they see rather than what they hear if there is any inconsistency. He records that communication consists of three categories:
· Verbal – 7%
· Vocal – 38%
· Visual – 55%
I just noted the three components of communication. Let’s talk a little about verbal. Verbal communication refers to all the words we use. Have you heard people speak in a manner that indicates thoughtful preparation? On the other hand, I’m sure you’ve heard others who can’t seem to produce a clear, succinct sentence to convey an idea. Think first…speak later. Word crafting is powerful and takes forethought and preparation, both in spoken and written forms, which demonstrates commitment to your purpose and knowing your information.
Vocal communication involves the qualitative aspects of speaking—your enthusiasm and sensitivity, the rise and fall of your expression, enunciation, and the volume, to name a few. These are memorable components that require some rehearsal. Other elements include projecting your voice to the entire audience, speaking with variety to avoid a monotone monologue, and sharing with empathy where others can perceive a smile on your face without even looking at you. When on the phone, your voice (tone, sincerity, warmth, and resonance) account for 84% of your message, according to Peter Decker of Decker Communications. One helpful tip is to record yourself speaking, then watch it and critique your presentation. Be ready to cringe when hearing the overuse of filler words like “um” and “uh.” This self-assessing practice brings insight into what others hear from you on a regular basis and helps you to hone your craft.
The final aspect of communication is visual. As aforementioned, it is also the most effective. There are four major body language categories that make up our visual communication “package.”
1. Eye Contact – Experts recommend 5-15 seconds of consistent, sincere eye contact.
2. Facial Expressions – Whether you smile, frown, look bored or angry, it has a significant impact on the way people receive your message. Your team members will interpret your facial expressions regardless of the content of your words.
3. Gestures – All of us have natural gestures we use to support what we are saying. Be aware of the messages you send when you cross your arms, lean back, fidget or otherwise distance yourself from the person with whom you are speaking.
4. Posture – Studies have shown that poor posture communicates weakness. If you are sitting, don’t slump or slouch. When standing, don’t prop, lean, sway, or rock back and forth. Stand confidently and comfortably erect in a balanced pose. Sit with a slightly forward lean with hands visible.
Remember, team members look to you to set the standard. The message you project will greatly influence those who look to you to set the example. Our message as leaders can very easily be lost through ineffective methods. For the sake of effectively conveying a message, vision, instruction, or word of correction; we leaders must strive to communicate verbally, vocally, and visually in a meaningful way that is memorable. People are watching, listening, and perceiving. Share your vision in ways that others can “hear” it through a variety of complementary modalities.
What methods of communication are your strengths and which ones need your attention?