TopOverview
This chapter presents key strategies for communicating. Communication should focus on trust to build relationships that allow messages to flow from sender to receiver, and that promote feedback. We revisit EVR and social network engagement to get a clearer focus for our continuing interactions. EVR is important because it addresses ways to improve communication and focuses us on reaching multiple receivers and managing the requirements of group dynamics. When people believe that they will receive benefits from an interaction they are inclined to join the communication. We examine trust, uncertainty, and commitment. Where there is trust, there are risks. Organizational risks may include reputational damage, compliance with regulatory requirements, information leakage, loss of intellectual property, malware attacks, copyright infringement, and privacy that may be harmful. Trust is necessary to the success of any relationship. Trust is built between communicating parties when emotions are shared, and trusting relationships help eliminate uncertainty through effective two-way communication. Shared value, common understanding, and collaborative discussions are keys to building trust. The sender or receiver can be uncertain about the identity of the other party or about the behavior of the other party. Behavioral concerns can include intended behavior like cheating or withholding information or unintended behavior like missing the communication session due to illness or being caught in traffic. Everyone experiences some level of uncertainty in communicating. Commitment is giving time and attention to the communication and taking care with the message, telling the truth, seeking shared value, and staying engaged to seek feedback. Communicators who are committed send the right message with the right delivery for effective interactions. Committed communicators will do everything in their power to send the right message with the right delivery. Commitment is valuable for effective interactions. Across generations, we must regain the ability to look each other in the eye and communicate. We have become increasingly desensitized to the human element. The FTF communicator has the power to influence the conversation and motivate a person or a group to achieve a goal or goals. Moving from online to FTF communication requires awareness to connect and then analyze a person or audience and sharing information that matters. This method of communication is basic, relevant, high-touch, powerful, complementary, interactive, timely, compelling, and committed. The chapter will give explanations for each of these claims to facilitate effective communication.