Wrapping up my Top Ten Communication Trends for 2015 – SCN Encourager
You know what they say? It’s better to be late than never, right?
But after failing to complete my Communication Trends countdown yesterday, Cindy told me that I’m lucky you don’t get to vote on this.
Most of you probably would’ve given voice to “NEVER.”
Okay. Okay.
I get it.
But to make amends, I’m going to wrap my list speedy-kwik.
Although I’ve demonstrated that I can’t countdown from 10, don’t let my error keep you from giving your attention to this list.
These things will be coming your way even more so in 2015. (That much I’m sure of!)
#10 Lifecycles
Every initiative and project can be pinpointed to its current spot on a lifecycle; the specific “stage” where it’s at. We need to understand lifecycles and stages. Your parents and school choosers progress through “stages” in their relationship to your schools as well: know – like – trust.
#9 More Mobile, More Video
Do more. (Nuf’ said.)
#8 The Lifehack
Connect with everyone’s growing interest in improving their bodies, minds, and relationships.
#7 A New Approach in Partnerships
Forget about sitting down with someone and crafting a “win-win” agreement. Sit down with someone and craft an agreement that challenges you both to “sacrifice” and bring value to someone else.
#6 The illusion of privacy
Do you want to be a big fish in a little fishbowl or a little fish in a big fishbowl? Private ponds no longer exist.
#5 Be nimble. And be quick about it!
The best leaders and communicators will be good at pivots and re-do’s. (The stubborn go to the penalty box.)
#4 Use a consistent “authentic voice.”
I like what marketer Scott Stratten says, “Be you. Empathize. Use your knowledge to be helpful. Use your authentic voice. That is, of course, unless you’re a total jerk. Then pay someone else to be your authentic voice.”
#3 The unique characteristics of Millennials
They’re growing in importance. Accept this and grow along with them. (Still keeping your values, standards, and authentic voice, remember.)
#2 Using Transparency to highlight results
Transparency isn’t about nakedness (Thank goodness!). But it involves more than accessibility, data, and openness. It’s about having a fully “transparent process” that tackles relevant problems and achieves reportable results.
#1 Your “comfort zone” is your best barometer
How do you know if you’re growing your skills and keeping up with the speed of change? You’ll know by how “comfortable” you feel. If you’re feeling good right about now, you’re inside of your comfort zone. Growth occurs outside of it.
Dang, I’m in trouble on this last one.
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