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• Avoids difficult conversations.
• Prepares poorly or not at all.

• Discourages the flow of ideas.

Does it best
Mention Martin Luther King Jr. and most people immediately think of his “I have a dream” speech. This
1963 speech has been ranked one of the greatest of the 20th century. One of the things that made his
speech truly great was his ability to deviate from prepared notes and adapt his message based on what
would best resonate with his audience. When a good friend in the audience shouted, “Tell ’em about the
dream,” King put his notes aside and improvised much of the second half of the speech, including the
familiar refrain, “I have a dream.” King told his story with the authenticity and conviction that moved
people to act. 8, 9

Tips to develop Communicates effectively
1. Tend to be quiet? Push yourself to connect. Each of us is wired differently. Extraverts get their
energy from interactions with others. They may speak more easily, enjoy gatherings, and develop
ideas out loud. Introverts may hold back more. They want to get more information before they speak.
They prefer writing to speaking. If you are this quieter, more reserved type, recognize that others
want to hear from you. They want to know your thoughts and perspective. So push yourself to be part
of the conversation. Want more information before you speak? Show interest by asking questions.
Feeling great about something? Let people know. Have a better idea? Follow up after the meeting
ends. Like a book or helpful website? Send an enthusiastic e-mail. Let yourself pause when you need
to think. Find quiet moments to gather your thoughts. But remember to join the conversation. You
have a lot to add.

2. Like to ensure you’re heard? Quiet down and listen. Energy can be engaging. But if you’re too
loud or talkative, you may alienate more quiet or task-focused colleagues. Maybe others can’t get
their work done when you’re around. Meetings can’t start on time because you are busy with side
conversations. Or others aren’t heard because you dominate discussions. If you’re naturally outgoing,
practice a little self-observation to see if your behavior is a problem. Or ask others what they see.
Then learn to quiet yourself down so that others can speak. Find other, appropriate outlets for your
energy. At work, learn to respect others’ space and time. Balance speaking with listening. Do you
tend to speak more in meetings than anyone else? Are you always the first to answer a question or
offer an opinion? Hold back. Let others speak first. Listen to what they have to say and then
comment. Pace yourself. For every instance that you chime in to the conversation, don’t speak again
until two other participants have had a say. Occasionally, try saying nothing.

3. Not open to others’ ideas? Solicit input and discussion. In love with your own ideas? Like to
figure things out and do your own planning? Issue orders and give instructions? Effective
communicators see the value of different perspectives. They listen to others, brainstorm ideas, and
collaborate on plans. They are open to what they can learn. To improve as a communicator, set aside

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