|
A few years ago, a long-time client requested a review of his services as he prepared to wind down operations for acquisition by a larger firm. As I put together a detailed PDF to help him with the transition, he referred us as an IT provider to the acquiring company. I was told they already had IT support in place and weren’t interested in pursuing a change. A couple of weeks later, I found out a copy of the PDF I prepared to help my client found its way to the inbox of the larger firm’s CEO. His response to the PDF I created in exact words were: “I know this is the guy you introduced us to last month, and I also know this isn’t the point of this email, but I love how clear and easy to understand he is. Very clearly written communications are hard to do in this world, but he has nailed it. How has he been to work with over the years? I don’t know how or if we could move away from Alex, but it is really refreshing to see something like this!” In an exciting turn of events, they became our clients just a short while later, and since then, we have had an excellent working relationship. What if I were to tell you that forming genuine connections like this in both personal and business relationships is easily achievable if you truly desire it and make an effort to enhance your communication skills? How? Here is my take:
IT STARTS WITH THE RIGHT INTENTION
The start, progress, and end of everything are often determined by the intentions we establish beforehand. For me, intention serves as the crucial initial step of everything. Just as I begin each day by setting an intention, I approach every conversation with this in mind. When you kickstart your day with the intention to assist others, that positive energy stays with you until you lay your head down at night in contentment. Prior to every call or meeting, I take a moment to refocus, asking myself a simple question: “What is the best way I can help?” When your desire to help others is genuine, you’ll notice that, in most cases, your own aspirations also find fulfillment.
IT BLOSSOMS WITH ACTIVE LISTENING
Reflecting on my early years running a computer repair shop, I often encountered individuals walking in unexpectedly frustrated about their PCs, only to start sharing deeper troubles at home or work that truly underpinned their distress. A favorite quote by Rumi resonates with me: “The quieter you become, the more you are able to hear.” While I acknowledge that this is a personal challenge, as I often find solutions quickly, true connection is not forged through solving problems but through active listening. Allowing individuals to express themselves may prove to be a more profound gift, fostering a deeper bond than simply solving their problems.
IT DEVELOPS WITH CLARITY & PURPOSE
Sounding intelligent doesn’t lead to effective communication; in fact, it can often create barriers. I find starting by truly understanding my audience is key to achieving clarity. By using simple language and keeping them engaged with relatable analogies, I build a solid bridge that allows both sides to comfortably take steps toward one another. I have found that recognizing signs of disconnect and promptly using analogies to re-establish communication is invaluable, especially when navigating complex topics. When it comes to analogies, I enjoy challenging myself to craft new ones on the spot tailored to the individual I’m conversing with. The second important aspect of fostering high-quality communication involves defining a clear purpose. Setting a tangible and achievable goal for the conversation is like having a destination set on your car’s GPS. It not only helps you reach your destination but also assists in defining your route and staying on course.
EVERYTHING IS POSSIBLE WITH CARE & RESPECT
While “care” may appear last on this list, it is the most essential ingredient for everything else to succeed. I strongly believe that the ability and willingness to truly understand, empathize, and connect with the experiences of others leads to the deepest connections and most fruitful partnerships. Empathy serves as a powerful tool that removes barriers and fosters genuine collaboration between individuals, paving the way for authentic and meaningful relationships. It all begins with recognizing and respecting the uniqueness of each individual, acknowledging their perspectives, and affirming their right to exist as they are. This magical foundation of respect and care is often how the healthiest and most fulfilling relationships are born.
Although our world can be loud, crowded, and challenging, it holds a lot of beauty. Each life is a musical note blending together to compose a magnificent song with lively highs, engaging middles, and comforting lows. As we continue to improve our connections and communication, we create a captivating melody. While perfection in every interaction may not always be achievable, I have found that embracing moments of presence, empathy, and understanding always helps. May you nurture many meaningful connections in all aspects of your life and treasure each and every one of them.
– Burak Sarac, Team Lead
|
