I'm off again for work, going East (UK) this time, instead West (Australia). In preparing for the workshops coming up next week, I spoke by phone with one of the participants from a workshop last September. She'd asked again for "Andy's principles of communications." When I pulled the list from my files, I'd realised I'd never posted the list. So, until I get back in 10 days, here's something for discussion.
My Top 10 Principles of Communications
- You’re the least important person in the conversation. (Be relevant. It's about them, not you.)
- Have a clear purpose of why you are speaking.
- Know what’s going on around you. Don't avoid the obvious.
- Know as much as possible about the audience, particularly their mindset.
- "Know what you say" – not "Say what you know." (Prioritise your messages.)
- Be explicit about what you want the audience to do.
- Be concise, succinct and simple (but not simplistic).
- State an opinion. (Or, be prepared to state an opinion if asked.)
- Don’t do anything to tarnish your reputation.
- Be passionate and enthusiastic about your presentation.
Do you have any others to add?
