We are rapidly approaching the inauguration of a new president of the United States. Coinciding with that are the hearings for the members of the soon-to-be chief executive's new cabinet. These men and women have been nominated by President-elect Obama and require the approval of the U.S. Senate before they can formally assume the duties of their new jobs. As it always the case, the transition from nominee to cabinet secretary for some of these individuals is going more smoothly than it is others. For instance, the nomination of Hillary Clinton as secretary of state is going very smoothly while the nomination of Timothy Geithner as secretary of treasury has run into a few bumps. Eventually, I predict, all of Obama's nominees will be approved.
I mention the selection of a new cabinet and, specifically, former U.S. first lady and U.S. Senator Hillary Clinton because I was struck by a point she raised earlier this week in response to various questions from members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. It had to do with changes in U.S. policy; specifically, to actually engage in conversations with countries deemed not to be friendly with us. This simple point has been a source of much debate over the past few years, particularly in light of the outgoing administration's reluctance to engage in conversation or diplomacy with allies as well as non-allies. The previous administration argued to engage in direct talk with non-friendlies is to give those countries and their leaders a cloak of legitimacy that they do not deserve or have not earned. Doing so also reduces the prestige of the United States. To both of these arguments I say "hogwash."
Every day all of us engage in some form of communication with those we do not necessarily consider to be friends or even friendly. But we do soon because we recognize to go though life each day by connecting only with friends is virtually impossible and limiting. We engage - communicate - with friend and foe in order to pursue mutual goals, advance our own goals, and because it keeps the wheels of progress in society moving just as they should. Any time communication breaks down, for whatever reason, we all suffer. Rarely are there positive alternatives to not communicating. What alternatives there are include fighting and active sabotage, neither of which is good for us as individuals for us as citizens of the world.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
A Level Playing Field
We are all equal. Men and women far wiser than I will ever be have written and spoke of that for more than hundreds of years. Much like the concept of gravity, it is indisputable. Having said that, however, it is interesting how in various circumstances of exchange or communication between people of varying rank, that old standby or concept seems to fall by the way side. For instance, take the scenario of the boss who will not speak to or interact with his or her employees simply because they are at a lower level within their organization. Yes, that is rude. Yes, that is unprofessional. And, yes, that is arrogant.
Communication can and does level that playing field. Whether the communication takes place in the form of face-to-face dialog or in writing, it puts the two on the same wave of interaction and forces a mutual acknowledgment that may not have been there before. For as long as the communication lasts, the players are engaged in direct and equal interaction. This, of course, is not to say one of the principles might not act rudely or might not communicate very well, but nevertheless this exchange puts them at literal or virtual eye level. Equality. Begrudging or easily-given respect. These are the seeds of effective and successful communication.
Effective and successful leaders do not shy away from opportunities to communicate with others irregardless of a person's station within an organization. This is simply because communication is one essential element the leaders need to direct and guide others toward helping workers achieve organizational goals and fulfill their own potential. If a so-called leader does what they can to avoid or minimize opportunities to communicate, then perhaps they are ill-suited to hold such a position of responsibility or authority.
Communication can and does level that playing field. Whether the communication takes place in the form of face-to-face dialog or in writing, it puts the two on the same wave of interaction and forces a mutual acknowledgment that may not have been there before. For as long as the communication lasts, the players are engaged in direct and equal interaction. This, of course, is not to say one of the principles might not act rudely or might not communicate very well, but nevertheless this exchange puts them at literal or virtual eye level. Equality. Begrudging or easily-given respect. These are the seeds of effective and successful communication.
Effective and successful leaders do not shy away from opportunities to communicate with others irregardless of a person's station within an organization. This is simply because communication is one essential element the leaders need to direct and guide others toward helping workers achieve organizational goals and fulfill their own potential. If a so-called leader does what they can to avoid or minimize opportunities to communicate, then perhaps they are ill-suited to hold such a position of responsibility or authority.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Responsible Speaking
There are few things more gratifying than talking with someone who actually listens to what it is we are saying. They pay attention and seem to be genuinely interested in the points we are trying to make. This not-so-illuminating thought was triggered yesterday when I attended a speech by President-elect Obama on the national economy. Over 1,000 people were in attendance, dignitaries and "regular folk." The economy, of course, is a topic that is a great interest to everyone because the economic problems of the nation are enormous and far-reaching. It affects all of us. Further, as the nation's soon-to-be next president, people want to know what Obama's thoughts are on this situation and what it is he is going to do about it. The obvious result is that Obama speaks, everyone listens.
Being a speaker who is listened to carries with it a great deal of responsibility. When people are active listeners they are, in a sense, opening up their minds and hearts to the speaker. They are, in essence, giving this person their trust. To give them back anything less than honesty and equal openness is underhanded and foul. While this applies to Obama, other public figures, and people of high visibility and authority, it also applies to the great majority of us who primarily speak only to other individuals - family members, friends, co-workers, and others with whom we interact. Honesty begets honesty. Honesty begets honest talk and honest listening.
As someone who will be doing a great deal of communicating with us over the next four years, Obama carries with him the heavy responsibility of not betraying we the listeners. On perhaps a smaller scale, we, too, carry that responsibility with us each and every day. It is not a small thing. So long as this responsibility is carried out in good faith and not short-changed, then the ties we attempt to create and maintain stand a most solid chance of being built.
Being a speaker who is listened to carries with it a great deal of responsibility. When people are active listeners they are, in a sense, opening up their minds and hearts to the speaker. They are, in essence, giving this person their trust. To give them back anything less than honesty and equal openness is underhanded and foul. While this applies to Obama, other public figures, and people of high visibility and authority, it also applies to the great majority of us who primarily speak only to other individuals - family members, friends, co-workers, and others with whom we interact. Honesty begets honesty. Honesty begets honest talk and honest listening.
As someone who will be doing a great deal of communicating with us over the next four years, Obama carries with him the heavy responsibility of not betraying we the listeners. On perhaps a smaller scale, we, too, carry that responsibility with us each and every day. It is not a small thing. So long as this responsibility is carried out in good faith and not short-changed, then the ties we attempt to create and maintain stand a most solid chance of being built.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Communication Recession
Is there any one who has no yet heard or read that our nation is currently dealing with an economic recession? Probably not. Even if someone is in the enviable position of not having to tighten their belt these days, then surely they are aware that most of the rest of us have and will continue to do so for who knows how much longer. When it comes to communication, there are also times when a recession occurs. People fail to communicate as well as they should or need to. Their timing is off. Their message is not clear. They do not listen as well as they should. These miscues between two entities happen not just once or twice but on an ongoing basis. In baseball, it is called a slump. The same is true for communication.
But whether we are talking about economics or communication or even baseball, recession is the result of sustained failed policies; ones that have been deemed to lack balance, honesty of intent, or effective follow-through. One piece of fallout from a recession in any one of these fields is a lack of confidence. Economically, many Americans currently share a severe lack of confidence in the Bush administration because of its failed policies. When it comes to communication, a lack of confidence also occurs. People withdraw. They turn away. They lose interest in maintaining a bridge between themselves and those with whom they are attempting to communicate. If left unaddressed, then a gap occurs that will not be rebuilt unless new policies or efforts are made.
In communication, a lack of confidence is equal to a lack of credibility. For any communicator, this is a kiss of death. When communicators fail to include benchmarks or points of measurement in any of their communication efforts, then they risk implementing policies that can lead to a recession. Much like the economy itself, the act of communication is that fragile and in need of constant tending and oversight. With the proper vision and commitment, recession in communication can be avoided.
But whether we are talking about economics or communication or even baseball, recession is the result of sustained failed policies; ones that have been deemed to lack balance, honesty of intent, or effective follow-through. One piece of fallout from a recession in any one of these fields is a lack of confidence. Economically, many Americans currently share a severe lack of confidence in the Bush administration because of its failed policies. When it comes to communication, a lack of confidence also occurs. People withdraw. They turn away. They lose interest in maintaining a bridge between themselves and those with whom they are attempting to communicate. If left unaddressed, then a gap occurs that will not be rebuilt unless new policies or efforts are made.
In communication, a lack of confidence is equal to a lack of credibility. For any communicator, this is a kiss of death. When communicators fail to include benchmarks or points of measurement in any of their communication efforts, then they risk implementing policies that can lead to a recession. Much like the economy itself, the act of communication is that fragile and in need of constant tending and oversight. With the proper vision and commitment, recession in communication can be avoided.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Dealing With Less
These are tough times in which we currently live. Just today, for instance, it was reported in the national press that Wall Street suffered a trillion dollar loss in 2008. Further, many state budgets are being cut. Holiday shopping is dramatically less than what it was last year. Plus, the Christmas-New Year's season, which traditionally is a big movie-going time for Americans, is experiencing a drop in ticket sales. These are just a few of many examples of our country's current financial hardships. It is no wonder, then, that the great majority of American families are worried about their ability to meet their financial responsibilities and not suffer a serious decline in their lifestyles.
Is there a role for communication in these times in which so many people are affected? The answer is a definitive "yes," especially for those entities and individuals who are in positions of fiscal authority and are sources of pertinent information. In times of uncertainty, people need sources of information and guidance to better help them cope. Here's an example: The institutions of higher education in the commonwealth of Virginia recently had their budgets slashed as a result of a revenue shortfall in the state. As a result, people want to know if this means tuition is going to be raised and if there will be less financial aid available for them. The responsible parties - the colleges and state officials - should prepare pertinent information with which to share with their constituents. They need to begin addressing the possible concerns and questions of their constituents. Do not wait to be asked. Get out ahead of the inevitable inquiries and share what information is known at the moment.
Taking a proactive approach will not eliminate the concerns of families, but it will help ease their level of discomfort, fortify the connection or bridge that links the colleges and state government with the people, and possibly build on whatever support the families give their colleges and universities and elected representatives. Bottom line: people do not want to feel alone and uncared for when a crisis occurs. Open and proactive communication can help address the kind of fundamental mindset people share when they are feeling as vulnerable as they do now. Suppose, one might ask, the information is not positive or that there is no new information to share? Good question. Here is a good answer: The responsible entities can and should communicate that. This kind of initial communication effort can help people feel they are not alone as they attempt to cope with the financial challenges of the new year. People are aware that government and, in this case, the colleges and universities may not have all the answers, but they do want to be reassured that they are on the same side. Honest, straight forward and timely communication can help do that.
Is there a role for communication in these times in which so many people are affected? The answer is a definitive "yes," especially for those entities and individuals who are in positions of fiscal authority and are sources of pertinent information. In times of uncertainty, people need sources of information and guidance to better help them cope. Here's an example: The institutions of higher education in the commonwealth of Virginia recently had their budgets slashed as a result of a revenue shortfall in the state. As a result, people want to know if this means tuition is going to be raised and if there will be less financial aid available for them. The responsible parties - the colleges and state officials - should prepare pertinent information with which to share with their constituents. They need to begin addressing the possible concerns and questions of their constituents. Do not wait to be asked. Get out ahead of the inevitable inquiries and share what information is known at the moment.
Taking a proactive approach will not eliminate the concerns of families, but it will help ease their level of discomfort, fortify the connection or bridge that links the colleges and state government with the people, and possibly build on whatever support the families give their colleges and universities and elected representatives. Bottom line: people do not want to feel alone and uncared for when a crisis occurs. Open and proactive communication can help address the kind of fundamental mindset people share when they are feeling as vulnerable as they do now. Suppose, one might ask, the information is not positive or that there is no new information to share? Good question. Here is a good answer: The responsible entities can and should communicate that. This kind of initial communication effort can help people feel they are not alone as they attempt to cope with the financial challenges of the new year. People are aware that government and, in this case, the colleges and universities may not have all the answers, but they do want to be reassured that they are on the same side. Honest, straight forward and timely communication can help do that.
Monday, December 29, 2008
New Year's Resolution
With 2008 now only a few days away from becoming history, I have been looking back at my life these past 12 months. Were the days that filled them good or bad? Was this is a good year for me? If my life in 2008 was a movie would it get a thumbs up or thumbs down? From a communication aspect, I give my life in 2008 a good review. Why? Did I write the definitive communication text or paper on this significant topic? No. Did I win any major award in the field? No. But I, like many others, did seek to advance the field and act of communication in an honest way.
Communication, like eating okra, is not for the faint of heart. It is messy, frustrating, and time consuming. Success is never guaranteed. Sometimes even the best intended communication efforts can make situations worse. Yet, at the same time, it is necessary for our personal growth and for the survival of our society. As a result, it needs to be promoted, practiced, and protected. The fact more people than ever are working as professional communicators is a good thing. This reality signifies an ever-growing awareness and recognition of the necessity of viable and effective communication. If any one thinks communication does not matter, then they should try getting through one day without it, even if it is a day they spend alone.
This brings me to my resolution for 2009. I will continue striving to be the best advocate for communication that I can. This blog is a piece of that. I will seek to make it more relevant and timely than it has been up till now. (I will also seek to generate a readership, which up till now I suspect consists of me.) But that aside, with over 35 professional years in the communication field and a growing realization that our world is more vulnerable and complex than ever, the bar of awareness and advocacy for communication must be raised. My resolution for 2009 is to help with that heavy lifting.
Communication, like eating okra, is not for the faint of heart. It is messy, frustrating, and time consuming. Success is never guaranteed. Sometimes even the best intended communication efforts can make situations worse. Yet, at the same time, it is necessary for our personal growth and for the survival of our society. As a result, it needs to be promoted, practiced, and protected. The fact more people than ever are working as professional communicators is a good thing. This reality signifies an ever-growing awareness and recognition of the necessity of viable and effective communication. If any one thinks communication does not matter, then they should try getting through one day without it, even if it is a day they spend alone.
This brings me to my resolution for 2009. I will continue striving to be the best advocate for communication that I can. This blog is a piece of that. I will seek to make it more relevant and timely than it has been up till now. (I will also seek to generate a readership, which up till now I suspect consists of me.) But that aside, with over 35 professional years in the communication field and a growing realization that our world is more vulnerable and complex than ever, the bar of awareness and advocacy for communication must be raised. My resolution for 2009 is to help with that heavy lifting.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Dealing With Complexity
The world is growing in complexity. More people. More agendas. More perspectives. More ideas. More problems. More needs to be heard and understood. Collectively, this makes for an imposing reality. Given this: what is a person to do? How can a business cope? How can a nation succeed in achieving peaceful co-existence? How can a planet sustain itself? The answers to these questions are as complex as the world that drives them. At the same time, responses and possible solutions do share one particular common element. For those of you guessed "communication," then go to the head of the class.
If there is going to be any chance at all at addressing the world's dilemmas, then people are going to have to talk with each other. Further, they are going to need to do so in ways that help them feel connected, listened to, validated, and even appreciated. All of this is one tall order that takes solid thinking, planning, collaborating, and test runs. These are exactly the kind of tasks that persons with good communication skills identify and undertake. The trick for those communicators and all who work with them is to devise a way or ways that help ensure the strategies are successful. This, of course, is where good communication on everyone's part comes into play. Also, it does not hurt if participants possess patience, a sense of humor, and an ability to think in the long term.
Communication is not easy, nor is it always successful. Looking ahead to 2009, the world faces an array of complex issues that range from food and water shortages and weak economies to global warming and AIDS prevention. What's a people to do? For starters, seeking ways to communicate makes for a great first step.
If there is going to be any chance at all at addressing the world's dilemmas, then people are going to have to talk with each other. Further, they are going to need to do so in ways that help them feel connected, listened to, validated, and even appreciated. All of this is one tall order that takes solid thinking, planning, collaborating, and test runs. These are exactly the kind of tasks that persons with good communication skills identify and undertake. The trick for those communicators and all who work with them is to devise a way or ways that help ensure the strategies are successful. This, of course, is where good communication on everyone's part comes into play. Also, it does not hurt if participants possess patience, a sense of humor, and an ability to think in the long term.
Communication is not easy, nor is it always successful. Looking ahead to 2009, the world faces an array of complex issues that range from food and water shortages and weak economies to global warming and AIDS prevention. What's a people to do? For starters, seeking ways to communicate makes for a great first step.
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