Think Before You Speak

Dona DeZube writes about the tricky dance involved in trying to stand out in the office, without annoying your colleagues by being pushy or brash. Read between the lines, and her article's all about communications: introducing yourself to people, listening to what they have to say, and in general being aware of how others perceive your actions.

When I was in college, a professor of mine reminded us - again and again - that communication involved more than speaking, writing, creating Web pages or what have you. It was only when the audience responded to what you said, wrote or published that communication had occurred. Effective communication is a dialogue, a two-way street.

Communication, I hasten to add, isn't just about high-falutin' things like giving speeches or writing articles. It includes what you do in the office: the conversations you have, the memos you write, the e-mails you send to colleagues, your boss and your clients. If you want to be effective, consider the idea of beginning a discussion rather than simply making a point. Whatever the issue is, you want to show people you're thoughtful, hard-working and willing to do heavy lifting when necessary - not that you're glib.

A lot of people pride themselves on being fast-on-their-feet and "naturally intelligent." I think most people, though, are more impressed by people who work hard and think before they open their mouths. And I really don't know anyone who's hurt themselves by listening as much as they speak. You shouldn't be a wallflower in the office, but you shouldn't be a boom box, either.

How to Stand Out, Make Friends, and Influence People [JITM]