If covid19 taught us anything, it's how important communication skills are in the information age. If you've been on social media at all, you know how volatile the posts have been about everything from how deadly the Coronavirus is to what we should or shouldn't do about it as a society. Not that they weren't before for topics such as vaccinations, politics, and religion, but most people aren't affected as deeply as they have to the limitations set by our government leaders and the prospects of the virus for the most vulnerable.
I have always maintained that communication skills are vital for us at all times. They make the difference in our friendships, our marriages, our workplace, our careers, and our ministries. However, the environment on social media about COVID-19 has been less than grace-filled and that has caused a multitude of problems. It's not just a matter of whether you want to be right or happy in your friendships or justification for the education of others. How we communicate with others will make or break your case either way.
If we speak in a grace-filled way, we are viewed as having a discussion. If we use accusatory and inflammatory language, all we do is get the other side riled up. In order to persuade, we must first present our case in a logical and calm language.
But putting that aside, the problem with not honing your communication skills while social distancing is much bigger than just losing a friend or two online. At some point, we will go back to our lives and that's when our communication skills will be a vital part of our success.
For those who lost their jobs, the search for a new one will be based upon how you interview as much as how impressive your resume is. Maybe more so! With so many searching for employment, those hired will need to make an excellent impression to be considered. That requires not only grace-filled speaking abilities but leadership, a cooperative attitude that comes across in how you present yourself.
I've heard stories of the criteria used to decide who should be let go. Those who didn't express a spirit of cooperation, who didn't convey a willing attitude, who didn't come across as a team player, or who didn't "work and play well with others" for lack of a better term, were among the first to lose their jobs. Let me tell you that these are the very same considerations that will decide who gets the jobs after social distancing mandates are lifted.
The questions you need to ask yourself are these:
1. Does my current communication skill help or hinder my chances of getting where I need to go in business?
2. Does my tone, word choice, or how I come across convey that I will be a pleasure to work with or that I would have problems with conflict?
3. Do my word choices make the impression that I am a leader?
4. How can I be sure that my interview skills are ready to land the job I need NOW?
If you answered negatively to any of these questions, I suggest you take advantage of any time you have now to see how Art of Eloquence can help you ensure your future earning potential after COVID19.