Shelle Rose Charvet is the author of Words That Change Minds. As an expert in below-conscious communication processes, she talks about “toward” and “away” types of communication in her keynote speeches.
“Toward” focuses on achieving goals such as staying within budget and even trying to lose weight. In contrast, “away” deals with preventing problems (moving away from) such as asking for additional funding or being called obese.
Unfortunately, some people are not motivated by “toward” words. So, if you are not getting any response on your “RED” project status, it might be worthwhile to adjust your communication style to the “away” format.
Consider saying “we will pay a huge penalty if we deliver late” vs. “deliver on time to get your bonus”. “Die prematurely and not see your grandchildren” might be a better motivator than “eat healthy to stay fit”.
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On his first week on the job, a former colleague of mine was sent for orientation training. While having dinner at a local bar, two attractive women propositioned him. Because he was married, he politely declined.
If a project team member performed a task incorrectly, don’t try to fix the mistake by saying: “You SHOULD do it this way.” or “You SHOULD have asked for help sooner.”
Consider the two sentences below.
