A few days back I was attending an Immersion session and was seeing presentations highlighting how various challenges were identified and overcome. There were also discussions on somethings which were tried out but didn’t succeed the way they were anticipated to. But like in all failures there were huge learnings which only come out in the open if we stop sweeping these under the carpet.
In today’s competitive world, the ability to communicate one’s thoughts is one of most important skills that all of us need to master. There are basically four communication tools which are available with each one of us to communicate effectively with the people around us.
· Our Mind
· Our Face
· Our Body
· Our Voice
It wouldn’t be wrong to say that the way we use our minds and communicate using our minds we are perceived as being competent or not by the audience.
The way we use our face, body, and voice to communicate actually helps to bring about our likability with the audience. Effectively showcasing your competence to the world requires more than just possessing the skills and knowledge; it entails the ability to communicate your expertise in a compelling and relatable manner. There has been a lot of material that is already available on the above subject. Let’s look at some of the key ones.
· Craft a Powerful Elevator Pitch
Renowned communication expert Arch Lustberg emphasizes the importance of crafting a powerful elevator pitch. This concise introduction should encapsulate your competence, achievements, and unique value proposition. By mastering the elevator pitch, you can confidently communicate your expertise in brief encounters, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.
· Develop Persuasive Storytelling
Prominent writers like Robert McKee emphasize the art of storytelling. Craft compelling stories that illustrate your journey, highlighting pivotal moments where your skills and expertise were instrumental in overcoming challenges and achieving success. These narratives make your competence not only relatable but also memorable.
· Master the Art of Clarity
The renowned communication guru, George Orwell, extolled the virtue of clarity in communication. Simple, straightforward, and unambiguous communication enables others to grasp your competence readily.
· Engage in Active Listening
Prominent author Stephen R. Covey highlighted the significance of active listening in “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” When communicating your competence, be an active listener. This not only fosters stronger relationships but also allows you to showcase your competence through thoughtful responses.
· Harness the Power of Visual Aids
Dan Roam, author of “The Back of the Napkin,” underscores the importance of visual communication. Whether in presentations, reports, or conversations, well-crafted visuals provide a tangible and memorable representation of your expertise.
· Leverage the Psychology of Persuasion
In “Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion,” Robert B. Cialdini explores the principles of persuasion. Show social proof through testimonials and endorsements from colleagues and clients. Utilize the principle of authority by referencing your experience. These persuasion tactics help bolster your credibility and make your competence more apparent.
· Establish an Authentic Personal Brand
Writers like Seth Godin emphasize the importance of authenticity and personal branding. Your personal brand should align with your competence. Whether through your appearance, content, or professional persona, a genuine and cohesive personal brand amplifies your competence and sets you apart in the minds of others.
· Fine-Tune Your Nonverbal Communication
Communication experts like Allan Pease and Barbara Pease delve into nonverbal communication in “The Definitive Book of Body Language.” Pay close attention to your nonverbal cues, including body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions. Ensure that these cues complement and enhance your verbal communication, reinforcing your competence and establishing trust.
· Customize Your Communication Style
Communication is not one-size-fits-all, as highlighted by Marjorie Brody in “Effective First-Person Strategies.” Tailor your communication style to the needs and expectations of your audience. This personalized approach ensures that your message resonates with others while showcasing your competence in a manner that is relatable and relevant.
· Embrace Digital Storytelling
In today’s digital age, storytellers like Gary Vaynerchuk emphasize the power of digital platforms. Leveraging the digital storytelling medium allows you to reach a global audience and demonstrate your expertise effectively.
Promoting your competence is not simply about displaying your skills and knowledge; it’s about communicating them in a compelling and relatable manner. Effective communication is the bridge between your competence and the world, allowing you to make a profound impact in your field.
But like I said in the beginning competence is linked to the way we use our minds to communicate our thoughts. Likeability comes across to the audience by the way we use our body, face, and voice. To continue getting more updates on these topics please subscribe to my LinkedIn page, “Rejo’s Business Bytes,” and my website, rejofrancis.com
