How many times have you asked someone to do something for you or tried to explain your side of things in a meeting, only to be completely misunderstood?
Probably a fair amount, I'm guessing.
That's only natural to happen and let's be frank, it happens frequently and with reliable regularity. You see, the brain doesn't really listen to every word someone says to you, it fills in the gaps.
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Not convinced? How many times have you listened to someone and before they even get half way through their sentence, you butt in, "Oh yea, I totally know what you're going to say"? Be honest!
See! It happens, and it's normal. Our brain wants to fill in the gaps quickly so that we can move on with whatever else we want to get to. Our brain uses information that we already think we know about the person, subject, topic, etc. and fills in the blanks.
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The problem arises when we think we k-n-o-w about the subject or person and they come out of left field with something.
So, here's the 6 little words that will help you communicate better with anyone.
"What did you hear me say?"
That's it.
They then get to put their own spin on how they heard you. When you hear that, you then get the opportunity to either confirm their understanding or possibly make corrections in your explanation.
Give it a try and get back to me, email me mcclellan@cpwmn.com
I'm rooting for you!
~Eric
