Some people communicate in a positive way, some people communicate in a negative way. The way in which they communicate can have consequences for themselves and other people.
Some people may give specific messages. They may do this when giving the headlines, explaining certain goals or giving other clear messages about the possible ways forward.
Some people have a more stream of consciousness approach. This can be extremely valuable and appropriate in certain situations. There may be other times when it can be useful for them to get to the point quickly.
Different people have different communication styles. Let’s explore the two styles we have mentioned.
The Specific
Messages Approach
People who follow the specific messages approach often try make sure they are doing in a positive way. Such people recognise they are more likely to get their messages across when they do the following things.
They Create A
Positive Atmosphere
Good communicators aim to create a positive atmosphere in which people will be open to the information. They may do this when having a one-to-one session, leading a meeting, making a video or addressing a large group.
Such people recognise this can be difficult if there are challenging messages to give. They try to make the environment as encouraging as possible, however, when describing the possible ways forward.
They Give Positive Messages
Good communicators rehearse what they are going to say and how to put their messages in a positive way. They do this when communicating the headlines, describing the goals or giving other messages.
Such people often focus on the future. Whilst acknowledging what is happening in the present, they describe: a) the way forwards; b) the positive goals; c) the benefits of achieving those goals.
They Do, When Appropriate,
Give Positive Options
Good communicators are prepared to, when appropriate, give people clear messages about the desired behaviour in the future. They may do this when, for example, it is important for people to behave in a more professional way.
They will explain to people: a) the possible options going forwards; b) the consequences of each option; c) the positive benefits of people choosing to follow a certain option.
They may encourage others to follow a certain option but recognise that it each person’s choice. They will then follow up appropriately depending on the choice that people make and the consequences.
Such people who give such specific messages aim to increase the chances of others receiving the information. They may then, when appropriate, invite people to play back their understanding of the key messages.
The Stream Of
Consciousness Approach
Some people follow a more stream of consciousness approach. Sometimes they may do this in a positive way, sometimes they may do this in other ways.
Sometimes this approach can be valuable and appropriate. Such as when having an encouraging conversation, brainstorming or exploring solutions to challenges. This can lead to fruitful ideas or creative breakthroughs.
Sometimes it can be less appropriate. Such as when complaining about life, not getting to the point or refusing to take responsibility. This can be exhausting for people.
As mentioned earlier, some people communicate in a positive way, some in a negative way. The way in which they communicate can have consequences for both themselves and other people.
Let’s return to your own life and work. Can you think of a situation where you may want to follow either the specific messages or stream of consciousness approaches? How can you follow this in your own way?
If you wish, try tackling the exercise on this theme. This invites you to complete the following sentences.
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