Have you ever put a postcard in a letterbox?
Now, have you ever wanted to deliver a bulk post package, then tried to deliver it through that same small letterbox?
You might reply: “That’s stupid, why try something that doesn’t work?”
Exactly, yet this analogy reflects how we often communicate.
The package (our message) doesn’t fit the letterbox of the receiver (what is important to them).
And we all have a different letterbox.
What happens when you receive a telemarketer’s call?
Do they ask you for your current requirements, your satisfaction level with services, what is and what is not important about the services?
No, right?!?
They share their messaging, their offer, their version of that bulk package that, more often than not, doesn’t fit our letterbox.
So what can you learn about yourself and the way your communicate with others?
For us to build any relationship and develop any level of trust, whether it be with a team member, colleague, prospect:
“Seek first to understand”
The foundation of trust – which impacts the relationship quality.
When we understand what is uniquely important to the other, and genuinely demonstrate this understanding and our care to help the other, then we can develop, nurture and deepen the relationship.
Not before.
So, what can you do differently today to speak into the listening of the people around you?
