As trite as the expression sounds, the reality is that poor communication, ineffective communication or simply a lack of communication can severely damage relationships.
It damages personal relationships, be they parent-child, or husband-wife.
It damages teacher-student relationships.
It damages boss-employee relationships.
And in sports, it absolutely damages coach-player relationships.
Through the past 25 years in the communications field, and in our overall life experience, it has become clear to us that strong relationships are very often-in fact almost always-based on solid and effective communication.
Some individuals are not natural communicators. Some are unwilling to try, others seemingly unable. Some think they are already effective communicators and it isn't until a 'crisis' of sorts arises that they are confronted with the reality-they do not communicate effectively and clearly.
But as with most things, communication -like listening, is a skill that can be developed.
We often remind clients that hearing is a sense, listening is a skill.
Similarly, in terms of communication, the willingness to really take the next step, to really "engage", can have a tremendous impact in creating the kind of harmonious relationship that can make all the difference for a player, or a coach, in terms of not only their personal success, but the success of the team.
At Prospect, we routinely see examples of poor communication, or simply a failure to communicate at all.
This occurs not only at the highest levels of sport--the NHL, NBA etc--but in the world of amateur sports and at the minor, grassroots level as well. It occurs in virtually all sports-- in team sports such as soccer and baseball, or individual athletic pursuits such as gymnastics and tennis.
As you visit our site, think about the ways your career, or organization, has been impacted by a failure to really and truly take the time to communicate effectively--to understand what it takes to communicate thoughtfully, clearly and credibly, and the time required to build the skills that will help you accomplish your objectives.
We can make a significant difference for you, your team, your association, organization or company.
