How do we effectively communicate our ideas in today’s world of information overload?
Has everyone become stricken by some degree of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)?
Or has the barrage of information that originally started sixty-plus years ago with television and commercials—and has now hyper-accelerated to our smart phones and tablet computers via websites, URLs, emails, and webinars—simply worn us all out? And let’s not forget the twenty-four hour news cycles with bloviating pundits yelling over each other in talking points and mindless clichés.
Here’s the good news.
I believe people do have the ability to hear (and comprehend) all the details of your story. I believe they still can pay attention when they choose to. And I still see evidence of individuals’ ability to focus when absolutely necessary.
Here’s the problem.
People are saturated. I know … I feel saturated myself.
And in my own communication style, I’m just as guilty as the next guy … I want to explain my thinking, my reasoning, and give all the nitty-gritty details. The problem is most people don’t have time (or the energy) to listen.
Here’s the solution.
When I need to get something done, when I want to communicate an idea, when I’m attempting to persuade and get others to agree … here is my communication strategy: short and sweet … and to the point.
Make it easy for the other guy. Keep it simple.
And that’s all I’ve got to say about that!
Next Blog Title: Information Filtering
Next Blog Date: March 19, 2012