Welcome back to the Speak As Well As You Think Podcast!

To kick off the year, we're discussing feedback. We want everyone to have an effective process in place if they're asked to provide feedback.

A few things we'll discuss are:

1. How might the person want feedback? Have you asked them? Do they prefer an "Oreo cookie sandwich", tough love, positives and negatives together?
2. What framework will you use to organize your thoughts? We don't recommend winging much communication, but especially not when it comes to providing feedback. Organize your thoughts ahead of time clearly and succinctly.
3. How can we decide on a path forward, together? What does the close to our conversation look like and is it collaborative?

Keep in mind, feedback isn't just for when things go south! Offer positive, specific feedback just as often. You'll likely have better outcomes when feedback is critical because you've created a baseline of trust and support.

We're closing out 2024 reflecting on the purpose of having a plan.

Most people fail without a plan. When it comes to communication, we don't want to fail. We want our messages to be clear, informative, and helpful. If we wing it, these things are harder to accomplish.

We'll discuss preparation with the following:

• Knowing your audience (a favorite of ours)
• Understanding how to show up as a listener
• Knowing the message you need to deliver within an appropriate time frame
• Making adjustments when necessary (you might go over or under)
• Having a purposeful close

Know the audience. Know what you need to share. Know how to end.

This month we're discussing all things listening.

We touch on our Top 3 Do's, which include:

1. Being aware of your non-verbal skills and what they're saying
2. Listening with the intent to understand not simply reply
3. Maintaining curiosity regardless of how you feel about the topic

We'll then touch on our Top 3 Don'ts, including:

1. Don't immediately defend your stance
2. Be cautious of interrupting and consider taking notes
3. Avoid the need to respond instantly, let there be space when needed

We want to help you continue to sharpen this important skill set. We hope you walk away with some tangible items to put in play!