"Learn to Move"

Though his may not be a household name, one thing you can say acknowledge about entertainer Jim Dale is the fact he remains active in a field of which he has been part for over 60 years. Presently, Dale is nearly 80 years of age and is starring in a one-many show in New York. In a recent interview, he said one of the best pieces of advice he ever received about getting into the entertainment profession is that he must "learn to move." In a career that has called upon him to perform serious drama, comedic pratfalls, musical numbers and voice-work, without question this advice has served him well. Dale was wise to follow it. 


Those considering a career in communication would be doing themselves a big favor if they, too, took this suggestion to heart. Every day of our lives we contend with one communication opportunity/challenge after another. Some are ones we have planned while others are not. None are the same. The many variables that comprise our encounters with others see to that. As individuals, our moods, thoughts and priorities are constantly shifting. Consequently, we must be on our intellectual "toes" if we are to come even close to helping ensure our interactions are effective or, at the very least, smooth.


Representing others, as professional communicators often do, demands even a higher level of flexibility. Perhaps a situation arises where a statement is needed. But what should be the message's tone? Should it be forceful, sympathetic, informative or apologetic - to name a few? In these instances, the communicator needs to be prepared to exhibit any one of these sentiments. Without having such an ability to move or be flexible, then they are neither capable of representing a client, but themselves as well. The question then becomes: how does one gain such an ability to be flexible? In his case, Dale in part, took dance classes. For those looking to become professional communicators, one place to start is learning to view the world through the eyes of others.