Over the past few years, I’ve found myself revisiting the lessons I learned in grad school. Among the various courses and competencies, I’ve gravitated back towards the realms of Management, Finance, Leadership, Strategy, and Communication.
Today, I’d like to share some reflections on communication—specifically, my experiences and insights regarding natural, comfortable discussions versus those that leave me feeling uneasy. While the title may sound straightforward and obvious, mastering effective communication requires significant time and effort. However, once you invest in building trust, active listening, and understanding others, the rewards are abundant and enduring.
If you were to ask my wife and family, they would tell you that I genuinely enjoy engaging with people. Often, when the conversation becomes captivating, we lose track of time. While I don’t mind engaging in small talk about the weather, technology, baseball, or football, what truly fascinates me is getting to know individuals on a deeper level—learning about their personal history and discovering what brings them joy in life.
When I engage in a conversation, my aim is not merely to collect data or superficial information. Instead, I strive to ask thought-provoking questions that elicit deeper, more meaningful responses. If your goal is to establish and nurture lasting connections, both you and the person you’re communicating with should feel at ease during the conversation and look forward to the next interaction.
It’s crucial to focus on how you treat the person you’re speaking with, as an old saying goes: people may forget some or all of what you said or did, but they rarely forget how you made them feel. Avoid dominating the conversation with discussions about your own career or educational background; instead, listen intently and learn about the other person. Rest assured, you will have your time to share, and through the diligent cultivation of strong relationships, you’ll have ample opportunities to discuss yourself.
By implementing these principles of trust, active listening, and understanding, you can embark on a journey to master the art of meaningful communication—an endeavor that will enrich your relationships and leave a lasting impact.
Tech Leader Notes 