Read Before Writing

In his autobiography, "Reporter," Pulitzer-Prize winner Seymour Hersch said it best in various comments about writing he made throughout this highly-readable book: read before you start to write. My take away from this advice is that if one is going to communicate effectively, then they must first know what it is they are talking about. Do not just plop down in front of a computer and begin banging out the first thoughts that come to mind. Do not grab a microphone and begin yammering away without first having a good idea what it is you want to say and a respectable understanding of whatever facts you wish to share.

An oft-used expression we hear these days is "shoot from the hip." It refers to persons who persons who say whatever it is on their mind without first taking a few moments to collect their thoughts or take into account how well their words might be received. I recognize there is a kind of romance surrounding the image of a man or woman who is able to communicate fluidly without having to refer to notes or a prepared next. All of us, I am sure, fantasize at times about being able to ignite an audience with a heartfelt speech about some important topic,  We have certainly seen such a scene played out countless times in an array of movies over the years.

The hard truth is that rarely in real-life are any of us able to sway others as well as we might like without first being prepared and well-versed on whatever it is we are talking about. Influencing others is rarely possible without first talking the time to prepare. Who is it you are attempting to communicate with? What is the audience's key interests? What information can you collect and even master to add strength to your communication effort? Read before writing. Homework before presentation. Look before leap. All these catch-phrases point to the same message: effective communication rarely occurs by accident.