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#IntentionalPositivity: Effective Communication is a CALLing

Jan 11, 2018 04:14PM ● By Laurie James

With every new year, we make resolutions of ways to improve our lives. Weight loss and getting into shape always top the list. Try taking a different path — one that will forever enrich your life and the lives of those around you. What would your life look like if you committed to effective communication efforts? Would that make a positive impact on your life, work, family, and free time?

Talking the talk is one thing, but walking the walk is something else entirely. When we make a concerted effort to improve the way we communicate, it can positively enhance everything we do. This resolution starts with one CALL, that’s all!

C – Calling is the most effective way to communicate. Picking up a phone and contacting someone who happens to be on your mind will do wonders for both parties. Not only does it let the other person know that you’re thinking about them (which they will surely appreciate), but it will also help you get over the fear of picking up the phone in the first place! Isn’t it true that often times we avoid calling people because we fear bothering the other person? In reality, most times, people want you to reach out and contact them. They may need to hear a friendly voice to help them deal with something they may be going through. (Hint: We’re ALL going through something!)

A – Answer your phone! If someone takes the time to place a phone call, try to answer. If you prefer not to talk at that time, at least make sure that your voice mailbox is set up and available for leaving a message. There’s nothing more infuriating than placing a phone call and hearing that the voice message box is full OR that it hasn’t been set up yet. Try to find someone who can help you with the technology of freeing up the lines of communication. You might just hear from someone that will positively change your life.

L – Leave an articulate and complete message. If you call someone and reach their voicemail, be sure to leave a message that conveys what you wish to communicate AND with a clear callback number. This is not the time to be coy! Emphatically state the level of importance that is appropriate for the message. If you’re just checking in, state that also. Leave a callback number twice so that nothing is left to chance.

If you made the phone call by mistake, leave a quick message letting the person know. A lack of communication slows us down and interferes with our ability to enjoy all the rich gifts that this world has to offer.

L – Learn to follow up. If you took the time to call someone, there must have been an important reason. Following up with someone is important in the communication process, this way you can leave it all on the table. There are several ways to follow up: Repeat phone call, email, text, Facebook Messenger, LinkedIn Inbox, etc.

In the song, “I’d Rather Be Sorry,” Kris Kristofferson articulates these words: “I’d rather be sorry for something I’ve done than for something that I didn’t do.” This holds true for communication. Reach out and follow up for the best results! Make this your best year yet! #CALL2018

 Laurie J. James is one of 18 Master Career Directors globally. She co-founded and presided over the Professional Résumé Writing & Research Association from 2000-2004. PRWRA rebranded to Career Directors in 2005. Laurie has created 10,000+ job-winning résumés in her 30-year career. She is a credentialed résumé and LinkedIn profile writer, seasoned public speaker and award-winning career image coach. 

To read more of Laurie's work, visit www.lauriejjames.com or click here.