more communication tips for lawyers
A few weeks ago, I offered this roundup on bettering communication skills. Adding to the chorus of how-tos is this article from Stewart Levine on the Essentials of Effective Communication. Among other helpful tips for forging “the verbal links that join you with the object of the influence you want to have,” Levine shares this compelling insight: “The Chinese Character for communication consists of three separate symbols: Eyes, Ears and Heart.” That communication involves all three of these human dimensions is evident in this post on The Art of Schmoozing from Guy Kawasaki. While intended as a primer on relationship-building, the post contains a strong undercurrent of communication dos and don’ts, including these: understand the goal (a/k/a discover what you can do for the other person); unveil your passions; and ask good questions, then shut up. Since effective negotiation is all about effective communication, Lee Miller’s article on the Eleven Commandments for Smart Negotiating provides several valuable pointers on getting our point across.
