Presenting ourselves well to others is crucial for effective communication. Our approach, patience, tone of voice, and listening skills all influence how people perceive us and how others will react to us.
Sometimes, we unintentionally come across as demanding or closed off, even when we think we’re being polite and engaging. It’s important to be mindful of how we present ourselves, as it can greatly impact the outcome of our conversations.
We often forget two important things:
- How we present ourselves affects how others respond to us. If we approach a conversation with anger, others may become angry or fearful in return. If we’re insistent, someone might become defiant. The way we’re perceived determines the level of attention and engagement we receive from others. It’s crucial to consider how our presentation may change over time.
- Others will always have a different perspective. We should respect their viewpoints and invest time in learning from each other. Finding common ground requires giving them space to express their individuality and fostering a relationship through conversation.
To effectively present ourselves, we must balance competence and knowledge with the skills of effective communication. Each person has a unique way of presenting themselves, as we’re all different.
Being aware of how we come across in conversations and striving for mutual understanding can lead to better outcomes. It may require flexibility, patience, and a willingness to navigate a winding road to reach a clear destination. Remember, none of us are as good as we think we are all the time.