Let’s Get on the Same Frequency

No matter how much we communicate, sometimes we’re just not on the same frequency.

Part of the problem is over-reliance on electronic communications (short messages and emails) to discuss complex matters. In-person meetings have been replaced by video conferences, and we rarely pick up the phone to connect.

When it comes to communication, each person has a different “preferential frequency.” Some love email; others detest it. Some love a quick phone call; others cringe when the phone rings, preferring a quick Slack message.

According to recent studies, the average human attention span is 8.25 seconds. That means I have less than 10 seconds to get your attention. (Some of you have already stopped reading.)

So how can preferences and attention spans help put us on the same frequency?

Let’s explore this deeper.

Dr. Albert Mehrabian, professor and researcher, formulated the “7-38-55 rule.” Based on extensive research, he concluded that the meaning or emotion of a message is communicated 7 percent through words; 38 percent by tone of voice; and 55 percent through body language.

If true, written communication (messages and emails), can easily be misinterpreted. There’s a reason for emojis. They are designed to convey emotions and clarify intention (which pure words leave out).

The key to communication success is to first consider our preferences and then share them with others. Leaving others guessing, or making them go through a trial-and-error process to communicate effectively with us, isn’t productive. To solve this problem, we’ve created a process called “Intel Files.” They are quick summaries or cheat sheets for effective communication. They allow others to practice flexing with greater accuracy.

If you’re in our Navigator program, you’ll create your Intel File right in the platform. Just go to the dropdown menu and click “My Intel File.”

You don’t need to be in the in the Navigator, however, to create an “Intel File.” It can be shared in a less structure way.  Consider communicating your preferences with peers or business partners whenever you start a new project. Ask your manager for their answers to the questions below, then share yours. As a result, you’ll create a positive environment where you can get on the same frequency.

Four Steps to Creating a Powerful Intel File:

Step 1: List your communication preferences from 1-5. For example, if someone wants to be effective with me, I prefer a message on WhatsApp or SMS (1). If that doesn’t work, give me a quick call (2). If we can’t connect, and the message is important, send a short email (4) send a Zoom invite (5) if we need to brainstorm or resolve a more complicated issue. Try not use email. I’m a verbal processer and tend to scan email only. Consider letting others know which you prefer, when, and why.

Step 2: Indicate your productive time (and time zone). What’s your most productive time of day? I’m an early bird, preferring to dive into things from 6am-9am. Around 2pm-3pm, my energy drops. I let people know when the best time to work with me is and for what purpose. I don’t work after 5pm, as I usually start my day around 4:30am. Being considerate of other people’s productive time and unique time zones goes a long way toward getting aligned. Remember to share your time zone with the person so you and they can make the appropriate adjustments.

Step 3: List any communication pet peeves (communication don’ts). We all have things that irk us. Being aware of them, and clearly communicating them to others, can go a long way toward eliminating jarring frequencies. In making your list, consider specific pet peeves for each type of communications (message, email, phone, video, etc.).

Step 4: List three communication “dos.” In as few words as possible, share three ways to communicate effectively with you. The shorter, the better. For example, you may say, “always follow-up,” or “show up organized.” These quick tips will help someone with a different behavioral style flex more effectively.

Consider what else you might want to include in your personal Intel File.

Remember, helping someone get on your frequency will help you both communicate with style.

 

 

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