The core model upon which we base all our training is the "three circles" - intersecting elements of Delivery, Content, and Connection. Understanding and applying these three key principles is central to all improvement efforts in communication. 

The Connection category is the one that seems to garner the most curiosity, but the least training and attention. Connection is the element that makes humans "get" one another. They nod their head. They laugh. They cry. They pull out their wallets and give. It is this connection that causes an audience to WANT to listen; to WANT to act; and to WANT to be a part of whatever you are communicating. Therefore, connection is a foundational piece that really should be the focus of the first words out of your mouth as a speaker.

Once a connection is made, of course, we must give Content that is memorable and deliver in a way that is not distracting. But the connection should precede those efforts.

But we too often ignore this valuable parameter, relying on our instinct, past perceptions, or even misguided internal voice(s) to create a connection with the audience. Many times we promote a dis-connection by what we say or ignore the needs and wants of the audience altogether. These errors will cause an audience to tune out or ignore us.

This month in our recurring What Not To Say video series, we look at a phrase that DIVIDES the audience, and is sure to drop the connection for some. If connection is so vital, eliminating dividing phrases should be a top priority. Watch Episode 2 today and continue to find What Not To Say.  

 

What Not To Say -- If you've ever been on stage speaking...

 

 

Alan just finished a two-part program for the Staff at the Ronald McDonald House of Durham, training them in the skills needed to give effective tours.  While the House essentially shows itself - what a POWERFUL tour and message - great communication skills are on display as well.  

 

I was teaching/coaching a group last week and they were hitting their head against the wall.  We were discussing making things interesting with good openers, and the basic tenor in the class was "I don't think this topic (I) is (am) very interesting."  I always disagree with this attitude, but we let it slide.  We introduced some methods to use and we got a few people to share what they were coming up with.  One guy starts a story, then stops and shakes his head.  "It just doesn't flow," he said.

 

What happened next was fun to watch.  One of the other students piped up and made a connection the first guy never saw.  

 

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