Thank you Coach Akenberger for sharing this awesome information about communication. As we know this is essential to the success of an organization. Please pass this on so we can call keep sharing and improving.
The skill of communication defines what it means to be a great leader. Those who efficiently communicate are a catalyst for better connections and increased motivation. Poor communication, in any industry, can have catastrophic results.
As strength and conditioning coaches, we need to effectively communicate with our staff, athletic trainers, sports coaches, GA's, and student-athletes. Athlete safety depends upon our communication with one another.
The good news is that communication is a skill that you can continuously improve on. Start by perusing the following key points.
Tone
Like tone can be portrayed differently through text messages and online; the same is true for in-person communication. One word can have a completely different meaning based on how you say it. You can change your meaning from excitement, disappointment, and surprise based just on your tone. Be aware of how tone may be affecting your conversations.
Trust
The basis for communication is built on trust, so co-workers and student-athletes are more likely to converse and open up to someone they trust. Additionally, the trust allows for a better understanding of a conversation.
Timing
Timing is everything but especially with communication. Always make a judgment to decide if an exact moment is best suited for a specific conversation. Know that it can also be scheduled later if someone is in a hurry or too upset to talk.
Clarify
Make sure the message your saying was received. Meaning, look for non-verbal or verbal cues that your message was clearly conveyed and received by the recipient. If it's necessary, you can further clarify what message you are trying to express.
Word Choice
Before you speak, make sure your message is valid and necessary. Likewise, always be considerate of who you're talking to.
Casey Akenberger
Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach
Michigan State University