Listening to and Evaluating a Master Communicator →
Why are some speakers, teachers, and even authors considered masters at what they do? Why is the work of these masters often referred to as art? When the source of information comes from a master communicator and the information is considered art, genuinely and sincerely, where does value to the audience come in?
Authentic communication is a way of expressing oneself genuinely and sincerely while being open and honest, and it seems like that would be part of the abilities of a master communicator. Should an audience be influenced solely by the fact that the communicator was honest and genuine and did not betray the communicator's values? The burden of evaluating the value of the communication is on the audience and their perception of the communicator.
These thoughts have been reinforced over a lifetime as I have listened to speakers and influencers who felt like masters of the art of communication, speakers with solid values, and people who were genuinely authentic sources of their subjects.
In contrast sometimes there are times when a communicator comes along that is polished to the point many might call say the speaker is a master. In addition, it might even be clear that the message fits the values of that communicator and can be authentic in that sense. In these cases, the last word on authenticity is with the audience to consider if the message fits their values.
Politicians regularly package their agendas according to their audience's values rather than explaining them. I sat near the front row of a talk given by Henry Kissinger in about 2000. He was a paid speaker to a group of businessmen and spoke mainly on the Vietnam War. The talk reflected the man’s opinion of himself and offered nothing regarding his values or authenticity. It might have been improved if some thought to communication principles had been considered if any personal values seemed to have driven his message.
In contrast to the Kissinger show, I had the opportunity to learn about effective communication firsthand from a master communicator whose methods and delivery were indeed an art form. In 1990, I spoke at the same event as Stephen R. Covey and sat beside him in the speaker area. He was a guest speaker at a church meeting, and I was also assigned to speak.
Stephen Covey was in every way a master communicator and a renowned author. He was named one of Time magazine's 25 most influential Americans in 1996, and his book, which had just come out, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," has so far sold over 40 million copies worldwide since its first publication in April 1989.
The experience taught me how a speaker can capture an audience's attention and what makes communication more potent through the speaker’s skills and, more importantly, by who the person is.
Covey was different in front of an audience than he was privately. We visited before the meeting started while sitting together. I knew several people who worked with him who had said that the speaker and the everyday man were very different men. It seemed to me visiting with him that he was authentic and indeed a good man. It was clear that whatever he said that day would be valuable. He was well dressed, but what stood out was his relaxed presence and bald head. I knew from some of his business associates that Covey’s decision to shave his head was strategic since his business taught leadership and was highly sought after as a speaker. Covey felt the bald head made him stand out in a room. In 1997, Covey Leadership Center merged with FranklinQuest to form Franklin Covey.
Our conversation was low-key and casual. When he stood up to speak, everything changed. He was charismatic and purposeful, and every eye was on him. His messages demonstrated his deep understanding of people and an incredible memory of recalling relevant details often sparked by his surroundings. He spoke without notes and found powerful words to deliver his message. When needed, he added instant recall from long past events.
The day I spoke with him, he didn't use a slide deck (a collection of slides used as visual aids during a pitch or presentation). He did many business presentations, and his reputation was that he often had hundreds of slides he could bring up to a screen and seemed to know each one by number, calling out the needed slide up by number.
Over the years, I have asked others who knew him what made him so charismatic. Some felt that his bald head made him stand out, drawing attention to him, while others believed that his use of power-packed words, incorporating data into his speech, and speaking spontaneously without notes were unique. Many have commented on how well-dressed he always was when speaking and that the audience didn't take their eyes off him when he said something or was in the room. Stephen Covey brought an aura of respectability and friendliness that entered the room with him and stayed until he left.
Covey's message to the young adults in the audience that day was not just inspiring, it was transformative. He knew his audience, spoke their language using powerful words, and delivered his message using familiar church-based terms. Covey understood their goals and talked to them, not just at them. His body language was fascinating, and he stood in a calm, relaxed, and respectful manner while moving his head and arms like a symphony conductor, bringing relevance to his words. He spoke without notes, maintaining eye contact with his audience. His credibility made Covey stand out, which is evident from his message about including personal values in your business decisions. It was indeed a masterful message that left the audience inspired and motivated.
As a skilled master communicator, Covey could adapt his style to different audiences, making each feel understood and respected. He spoke using the terms of this audience's faith and the setting they were in. In his book, he said, "Becoming a good communicator requires behaving and thinking in a certain way." He demonstrated this thought that day, clearly showing that he could adapt to find what the audience was listening for.
Covey's "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" has become a well-known personal and professional development contribution, empowering and enlightening countless individuals. The first habit, "Be proactive," emphasizes taking responsibility for one's life and actions. The second habit, "Begin with the end in mind," suggests that individuals should clearly understand their goals before acting. The third habit, "Put first things first," means prioritizing important tasks over urgent ones.
Covey's fourth habit, "Think win-win," advocates finding solutions that benefit all parties involved. His fifth habit, "Seek first to understand, then to be understood," encourages individuals to listen to others before trying to convey their ideas. The sixth habit, "Synergize," emphasizes the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Finally, Covey's seventh habit, "Sharpen the saw," encourages individuals to improve themselves continually.
Covey's message and 7 Habits have impacted individuals seeking to improve their personal and professional lives. By adapting his communication style to different audiences and contexts and emphasizing the importance of taking responsibility and continual improvement, Covey has left a legacy of effective communication and personal growth.
Amazon Reviews of Mastering the Art of Communication: The Power of Precision in Language →
Dan Diaz - Reviewed on Amazon
5.0 out of 5 stars - Mastering the Basics: Essential for Future Success
Reviewed in the United States on June 13, 2024
This book may seem basic at first glance, but don't let that fool you. This book lays down the fundamental building blocks for anyone serious about improving their communication skills. As someone who has delved into many self-help and professional development books, I can confidently say that the principles outlined here are not only foundational but absolutely crucial for long-term success.
What makes this book stand out is its focus on becoming an interesting speaker and communicator, not just on the techniques. It’s about transforming into someone who can convey ideas with clarity and precision. This approach ensures that readers are not just learning how to communicate but are evolving into compelling wordsmiths.
The basics are what matter most. By focusing on these core principles, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any communication challenge that comes your way in the future. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills in a meaningful and lasting way
Why I wrote Mastering the Art of Communication →
Discover the power of influential communication and become a Wordsmith with this comprehensive guide to communication. This book teaches readers how to unlock the right words to make a lasting impression and establish meaningful connections. By the end of this book, readers will have the tools to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas with clarity and precision.
The benefits of reading this book include:
- Unlocking the power of influential communication to establish meaningful connections
- Discovering the right words to make a lasting impression
- Transforming your life with the correct language for any situation
This book provides readers with step-by-step instructions on becoming a Wordsmith, including industry-specific terminology, search engine optimization, demographic analysis, and situational analysis. It also includes tips and tricks for effective communication.
Why I wrote this book.
In 1990, when I sat next to Stephen R. Covey, who was scheduled to be the second speaker of that day, with me speaking first in a small group, my expectations were high.
Looking back 33+ years, his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is still one of the most inspiring and impactful books ever written about how success comes from building internal character based on values and principles rather than just trying to change behavior.
As I wrote my recent book, "Mastering The Art of Communication: The Power of Precision in Language," many of my impressions and thoughts came to mind that day from listening to and experiencing Stephen Covey's talk from years ago.
My book aimed to focus on what added to the words of Covey's message. These include unlocking the power of influential communication, using the right words and language, and the importance and totality of a speaker's nonverbal communication.
Become a Master Communicator & Make a Lasting Impression.
Watching a Master Communicator →
Speaking just before Stephen R. Covey 30+ years ago, I watched a master of the art of communication demonstrate the power of precision in language and how important having charisma is when you are the speaker.
In my book, "Mastering the Art of Communication: The Power of Precision in Language," as well as in this video, the focus is on using the appropriate terminology in communication to make a meaningful difference to convey the desired goals, make wanted connections and draw attention to the challenges speakers and writers face as the terms available for communication expand and overlap in our business and personal settings.
Among many, Industry-specific Terminology, Search Engine Optimization, Demographic Analysis, and Situational Analysis are areas of focus where communication improves dramatically and where terminology is adequately considered.
Mastering The Art of Communication The Power of Precision in Language
Product Description - Mastering The Art Of Communication →
This book will equip readers with the essential toolkit of becoming a Wordsmith. With the right words, readers will be able to communicate effectively and express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas with clarity and precision. Inside, readers will find a comprehensive guide to understanding communication, effective communication, and how to improve communication skills.
The benefits of reading this book include:
- Unlocking the power of influential communication to establish meaningful connections
- Discovering the right words to make a lasting impression
- Transforming your life with the right language
Inside, readers will find:
- Step-by-step instructions on how to become a Wordsmith
- Industry-specific terminology, search engine optimization, demographic analysis, and situational analysis
- Tips and tricks for effective communication
Don't miss your chance to become a Wordsmith and make a lasting impression
Author Brent M. Jones AD page for Mastering The Art of Communication