By Christina Nota
You want to ask for something… You want to pass a message on… You want to follow an agenda in a meeting without the conversation derailing into other topics… In essence, you want to achieve a specific goal/target/outcome from a conversation.
The first thing you need to clarify for yourself and for others participating in the conversation is the outcome you want to achieve. This outcome should be specific, measurable, and understood by all parties involved. Only then can you begin a conversation that will lead you toward your desired outcome.
We know that first, we have a thought, and then we move to action. The action here is to convey your thoughts to one or more people. It sounds simple, but it is one of the biggest challenges in our everyday lives. Having conversations with others that lead to our desired outcomes is no easy task—especially when we want to communicate a particular message and maintain excellent relationships. This is where the real challenge lies.
In recent years, I’ve become especially focused on observing how business professionals communicate their goals in meetings. Some conversations hit the mark, while others fall short. What’s striking, though, is that many times, repeated discussions are needed on the same topic, leading to multiple meetings and consuming valuable time. This leaves limited room for other essential tasks, which can result in stress, anxiety, and drained energy. These factors, in turn, often fuel negative thinking and actions rooted in that mindset. And so, the cycle continues…
Wouldn’t it be great if we could imagine a world where company meetings were targeted, quick, without ambiguity and emotional overload? I suggest completing research before having these type of intentional conversations.
How can you prepare yourself for intentional speaking?
- Define the Outcome: What specific result do you want to achieve from this discussion?
- Select the Discussion Style: What type of conversation will best support this outcome? Should you speak openly, or would a more focused approach be effective—like seeking alignment or making a request?
- Understand the Audience: What do you know about the people you’re addressing? Do you understand their background and beliefs on this topic? Recognizing these elements can help you communicate your ideas more effectively.
- Gauge Their Perception: How do they perceive you, and what is your relationship with them? Considering their thoughts about you can shape your approach.
- Choose Words Thoughtfully: Which words are you choosing? Words hold power; understanding their impact is crucial.
When you have finished your preparation, you can begin the discussion with purposeful, intentional speaking.