Perception and listening

Did you ever have the experience of hearing someone retell an interaction and wonder, “Were we in the same conversation?” It is amazing how 2 people can hear the same things and yet come away with vastly different perceptions of what was said. Sometimes, it is a matter of people listening only for what they want to hear. Other times they only catch bits and pieces due to lack of attention. Whatever the reason, such miscommunication is at the root of many problems.
 
What does this mean for effective communication to groups? You can take steps to minimize the confusion.

1. Be clear and concise in your delivery. Simple is better.
2. Use ground rules to try to capture attention. Ask people to put down their phones and wait for them to do so.  
3. Cover the “listen fors” - You have a wide variety of personalities in any room, so try to answer the “listen fors” of each group. Some people will be evaluating what you say for facts. You need to provide them with the logistics, process and facts. Another group will be listening for feelings. This group wants to know how your topic will affect people and the culture. Those people will want you to inspire and communicate safety deliver with empathy.
4. Ask for feedback – Would someone summarize what we have covered here today? Any questions?

 
Sometimes communication is more informal, but you can ask effective questions to confirm what you have said was understood as intended. Open ended questions like, “How do you feel about that?” or “How do you think we can implement this effectively?” Can ensure they really listened to what you have to say.
 
Words matter. Use them intentionally!