Remember the film, Forest Gump? In the film, the character Forest learns how to play ping-pong. (And, spoiler – does really well!) As he learns, he starts off slow and rhythmic. Pretty soon, he has sped up, and by the end it seems as though he has 800 balls with 3 paddles!
This might just be what communication feels like to you these days – trying to ping all the emails (balls) to all the right people as other communications pong right back to you. Your arms can only swing so fast! And it is overwhelming.
Here are some insights you might consider as you navigate your ping pong game of communications:
1. Perspective –
Give yourself some space. Take a deep breath. Grab a clean sheet of paper and a pen. And then create a communications dump – what is everything that needs to be communicated in the next 24 hours? Write everything down.
2. Prioritize –
From the list of communications – start asking yourself some priority questions. What needs to be done right now? What can be put off? What needs to be communicated by you specifically? What can be delegated?
3. Plan –
Using our tools of the 6 Planning Musts and the Key Word Outline, you will be able to create clear and concise communications. Our 6 Planning Musts tool is a strategic thinking process and our Key Word Outline is a tool that provides structure to your messages.
If these tools sound like something that would truly benefit you – check out our Speak Up & Be Effective™ and Be Bright. Be Brief. Be Gone.™ programs.
You will receive the tools and so much more.
May these insights have a positive effect on your communications during any busy season you encounter.
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