Communication can be your friend or your foe depending on how well you develop the core strength. There are many types of communication; written, verbal, body language, etc. This is a strength that you will work to hone over your entire life; mastering or perfecting is not possible. There are an infinite number of situations and conditions that can come into play at any time during communication. Even the best laid out speeches can go off track with the use of the wrong word, misinterpretation of what you were saying, unexpected interruption, culture barrior, etc.
Our Military and thus Veterans are the most highly qualified communicators available. They are constantly exposed to situations that have the most unpredictable outcomes thus have to be hyper sensitive to what they say and do. As well as being able to build and sustain a healthy rapport up and down their chain of command regardless of rank or others communication styles.
Have you ever seen those situations where someone talks to their superiors one way, their peers another way, and their direct reports yet another way. This can be confusing to those that interact with them as there should be no difference in your communication abilities and styles. People you interact with like to know that regardless of their position on an organizational chart or age that they will be treated with respect and dignity when communicating with you.
"I'm a great believer that any tool that enhances communication has profound effects in terms of how people can learn from each other, and how they can achieve the kind of freedoms that they are interested in." - Bill Gates
There are many benefits to being a great communicator:
- Having the ability to communicate up, down and across brings everyone together
- Flattening the "structure" builds sustainable positive relationships
- Bring to life the one team concept
- Breaks down barriers that prohibit effectiveness
As I was progressing in my career from one level to another it became evident at each step that I needed to change and evolve my communication skills. Starting out in the beginning of the Information Technology realm I was able to write and speak the tech language as good as anyone. As I approached my first step into managing people I had to learn how to better communicate my vision, approach, expectations, etc. if I expected anyone to follow me. As I became better at this I was realizing that the ability to speak from a business and political standpoint to those senior to me in the organization was just as fundamentally important. This became quite a challenge for me based on my personal style and my technical background. I realized quickly though that if I did not succeed in making this change it would ultimately have a negative impact on my career. In time this did become one of my strongest strengths and each year I can look back and see that I still continue to improve in my communication abilities.
Landmark Life Coaching's Mission is to honorably and respectfully serve courageous groundbreakers and transitioning veterans to persevere in defining and executing their future by providing an atmosphere of comradery and trust that honors their dedication and commitment. This will empower our clients to feel whole, honored, respected and fulfilled in defining and living their life purpose.
Veterans Coach/Speaker/Writer Dwayne.paro@landmarklifecoaching.com