There is a proverb that relates to this, and it is “you can catch more flies with honey.” Your tone of voice can facilitate or hinder how others hear your words. When you feel that someone has not heard you, then reflect to consider how you said the words. Try this: plan how you will say it in addition to what you will say.

This may seem like last week’s post, “Ask One Question at a Time”, but it is quite different. If you are asked a string of questions all at once, which question do you answer? Best practice: start by answering the first question; then, pause to “invite” a response. When someone asks you a series of questions without allowing individual responses, they are usually making assumptions. Take the lead and have a more meaningful conversation by creating a “space” for the other pers

If you ask multiple questions at once, which question will most likely receive a response? If you answered, probably the last question asked, then you are correct. When we ask a series of questions without pausing for the responses, we are often assuming the content of the responses. However, the actual response to each of the questions is probably different than we have assumed. Best practice: wait for a response, and listen to the response before asking your next question.

How often do you use the word "but"? Be aware that when "but" is used, it is often perceived as negating the prior phrase. Is that your intention? Usually not. Instead, use "and" so that both phrases are heard as being valid. Initially, it may feel uncomfortable to use "and" so push through that, and it will become a new habit.