A simple framework: Making communications more effective

People are listening for one thing, “How does this affect me?” 

Make sure all your communications - slides, voice messages, texts, emails, etc. – follow Know Feel Do.  

·     What’s the one thing my audience needs to know? (One point. One sentence)

·     How do I hope they feel about it (Do my tone, words, attitude reflect this?)

·     What do I want them to immediately do with the information (Remember: FYI is NOT a call-to-action)

I

f you’re missing the “know” or “do,” your communication may not be relevant to the receiver(s) and ignored. 

If you’re missing the “do,” ask yourself: Does this really need to be sent?

Google the framework; there are lots of great overviews like this one: http://www.alexandrafranzen.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/feel-know-do_free-workbook_franzen.pdf


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Dear Dennie #1 - How much is TMI?

A monthly letter/column as written for & published also by Women in Transportation Services

Mentoring 101
Dear Dennie,

I am happy to explore being vulnerable and open with my mentor. But how much is too much information? 

TMI

Dear TMI,

While a good mentoring relationship requires honest conversation, mentoring is not therapy. Mentoring is about your career and your understanding of your values as they affect it.

Still, sharing personal information is something we do every day. It is how we build friendships, gain trust and, sometimes, get through a cocktail party.

There's a few questions you could consider to assess the situation:
1. Is the information supportive of the agenda or other people involved in the conversation?
2. Am I okay sharing or hearing this information?
3. What is the story being shared in support of?

There are at least two of you involved in every conversation. Talk with your mentoring partner to establish boundaries you can both support.

Now, ask me anything.... :-)

dennie

Managers vs. Mentors - difference in coaching

Be clear on the expectations in your mentoring relationship… and how they differ from a relationship with a manager.

Understand obligations and drivers. Make sure everyone is clear on what kind of coaching is involved.