Communication isn’t what I say, it’s what YOU hear.
Here’s today’s tip: Communication isn’t what I say, it’s what YOU hear.
My dad started telling me this when my age was still in the single digits and reminds me of it frequently. It’s as true now as when I first heard it.
The jist of this lesson is that I take ownership over what happens when I open my mouth. The words I choose, the inflection I generate and the gesticulations my body mimes are all talking at once.
Whether it’s as a husband, boss or candidate, it’s important that you always keep communication as the key goal when you open your mouth. The focus isn’t on you and whether you think you’re sounding good, it’s about whether your audience is correctly receiving the message you intend for them.
Never lie or embellish your campaign bio. You WILL get caught.
Here’s today’s tip: Never lie or embellish your campaign bio. You WILL get caught.
This seems on the surface like a no-brainer…but you’d be surprised to find out how many candidates get slammed for failing to follow this rule.
Look, we all want folks to like us. And if you’re running for office, you’re probably pretty proud of your accomplishments in life. What’s the big deal in rounding up your college grade point average or padding the number of lawsuits you won? Would it hurt to make your position in the military seem more dangerous or cooler than it was? How about how many years you’ve lived in the district or how many years you’ve been voting in your party’s primary elections?
A good message without proper repetition is wasted air.
Here’s today’s tip: A good message without proper repetition is wasted air.
A good message without proper repetition is wasted air. A good message without proper repetition is wasted air.
Got the message? Ok, so that was a bit literal but I think you’re hearing me. There are two parts to today’s tip.
Throughout a campaign, you’re going to be touching a lot of voters and trying to get your message, record and platform in front of them.
But once isn’t enough, right? We’re knocking on doors, making phone calls, sending mail, hitting social media and more. One hit isn’t enough.
Never pass up an opportunity to say “Thank you!”
Here’s today’s tip: Never pass up an opportunity to say, “Thank you!”
There are no two words in the English language more powerful than “Thank you.” But I’ll tell you what, I’d be hard-pressed to find a campaign that uses them enough.
As a candidate, you’re the front-man, but the campaign will fail unless you’re surrounded by people who are dedicated to your success. Activists, donors, volunteers, friends, family and more. All are pulling for you and investing in your effort.
But there’s more to thanking somebody than just the words, right? We all know the difference between an over-the-shoulder, “Thanks man!” and when somebody pauses, looks into our eyes and gives a heartfelt “Thank you.”