Fifty Shades of Words for Your Ideas

The words you use to communicate your idea can make the difference between your idea being accepted or rejected by the person you’re talking to.

I’ve noted this repeatedly in other lessons. This message is so important that I am giving you another example, here, of using the “right words” for what you want to convey about your idea.

Word!

That one word, said with emphasis the way I just said it, conveys an entire message. According to UrbanDictionary.com, when someone says, “Word!” they’re communicating that they understand what you are saying and they verify that your statement is true. They may also simply be greeting you in a friendly manner.

I love words. We use different words to convey the same idea, differently, when we communicate UP to those in positions above us on the corporate organizational chart; DOWN to those who report to us when we hold leadership positions; and ACROSS to our peers and colleagues.

If you struggle to find the right words to convey both the content and context of your messages, consult one of my best friends, the Thesaurus. You’ll find Thesauruses – say that fast three times – online, in apps for your mobile devices, and on the library bookshelf.

Here’s a fun challenge I’m giving you. Identify how many ways the sports section of the news conveys the concept of winning and losing. I’ve identified at least 34 different words and I continue to find new words. Some of them include trounce; dominate; destroy; celebrate; overcome; sweep; and triumph. Consider that each word’s content represents win or lose. Yet how does each one make you FEEL? Does one convey winning by one point whereas another conveys winning by a 20-point differential? That’s the CONTEXT added to the content.

In this same vein, look at the words you use when you communicate your ideas. Consider whether the ones you choose convey both the content and context that you intend.

Word! One can make all the difference for hearing “yes” to your idea.

Watch the video!

If you like what you heard and saw here, connect with me at www.SylviaHenderson.com. Stay up-to-date with my tips and guidance to move your ideas to income. Let’s start with a conversation to see how I might serve you – or your organization – to implement your ideas and get things done!

Sylvia Henderson ~ CEO: MindTeam Solutions, Inc.

Contact Info: Website – LinkedIn – YouTube – Facebook – Twitter

Employee Engagement and Culture Change

Things like Diversity, Equity and Inclusion or Emotional Intelligence are more than trendy catchphrases or legalities.  When they become part of your culture, DEI and EI are the keys to your company’s growth, success and legacy.

  • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) steps that strengthen your team and boost your bottom line
  • How do you harness…and hold onto…your team’s Emotional Intelligence?
  • How to have Tough Conversations with positive outcomes
  • Rethinking Assessments so they actually work for your team and your organization