“Careful the words you speak. They can be either a boon to the weary of heart or the final blow to an already dying psyche. Uplift those around you with your words. They are so much more powerful than you might know.”
A social media post I made in late 2013 regarding a belief system I was determined to implement in my personal life despite negative circumstances I was dealing with at the time, this remains something I have to continue to remind myself of even today in all my interactions, personal and professional. There is a deep and long rabbit hole we could delve into on the personal level, but it is the professional aspect of this sentiment that I will focus on right now.
Before making any comment to anyone in any professional capacity, it should become second nature to think instinctively of the impact your words will have. Not only are you speaking to any one person at any one time about any one subject, but your words carry a weight far beyond the present and far beyond the subject at hand. The words of any person in any position of authority are powerful and must be weighed in the mind of the speaker long before they are spoken. For some this may take some practice. A quick wit with a caustic tongue can be great for some at parties, but in the realm of the leader or communications professional in any professional setting such a combination can prove harmful and ultimately destructive.
The mental filter is a real thing for any who rely on communication in a professional setting. It may take practice, but using that filter on a daily basis is an important part of communicating effectively and more powerfully. Being able to quickly remember all your audiences (and every time you speak you have more than one audience listening) before you open your mouth to remark about anything will keep your message meaningful and resonant. Speak purposefully to all who you train yourself to consider mentally. Remain as positive as you are able to no matter the circumstance. Deliver something to each group that resonates with them in some positive way.
People may not remember everything you say. But almost all will remember how you made them feel.
As always, tell your story. And tell it well.