The Trouble with Words

Blaise Pascal, French mathematician of the 17^th century, is quoted as saying “If I had more time, I would have written you a shorter letter”.  Think a moment on the power in this concept.Words can be our strongest skill or our biggest impediment.  Consider performance measurements that involve the use of words: communication, business acumen, ability to give feedback, presentation skills and political savvy all rely on effective use of words.  The trouble is we learn how to talk, but rarely focus on refining what we learn.  We send long emails, patiently wait for our turn to speak (disguised as listening) and make long-winded speeches with short meanings.  Truth be told, I spend a lot of time editing tweets to reach the magic number of 140 characters.

Leaders know that words are only effective if used with purpose and precision.  Have you ever noticed that a good leader, when the most powerful person in the room, rarely speaks first, often asks questions and offers the most succinct comments?    Leaders are not natural born orators.  They concentrate on learning skilled use of words, frame their thoughts carefully and refrain from speaking unless their contribution adds new dimension.  Here are some ways you, too, can use words well.

1.       Tell a story to make a point

2.       Get your thought out… and stop talking

3.       Use questions to lead dialogue without overtaking others, especially if you are knowledgeable

4.       Take the time to refine communications before sharing with others, particularly email

5.       Avoid filling silence with repeated thoughts or meaningless words - the silence is better

Remember that effective leaders say little but their words pack a punch.  Pick a great orator, follow their words, and consider the craft they are using in self expression.  Study the words of Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Martin Luther King and Barack Obama.  The words of these great leaders are powerful enough to generate change.

Use your words to inspire others, share a vision, influence direction or encourage a friend or colleague.  Chosen well, your words can have great meaning.  What suggestions do you have to improve our use of words?