Archive for the ‘ Communication skills ’ Category

Nice and easy does it

March 3, 2012

Getting ready to interview a hesitant or harried source for your company’s or client’s next big story?

Job 1 is creating the right environment so your source feels comfortable sharing information. Here are 13 ways to create a good rapport with your story sources – right upfront.

1. Tell a source you simply want to have a conversation. People tend to find a “conversation” enjoyable but may find an “interview” intimidating. Choose your words carefully to put your source at ease. If you create trust early on, your source will share more – and you will get a richer story.

2. Never ask for an “endorsement” or a “testimonial quote.” Both requests are immediate turnoffs.

3. Recognize that some sources may hesitate because they’ve been burned by unskilled writers in the past. Assure them you are interested in and want to tell their story. Say things like, “We’re on the same side here.” Remind sources that you’re happy to share the story with them before sending it off to the printer.

4. Avoid conducting cold interviews. Instead, set up a mutually convenient interview time ahead of time. A scheduled time will make your source more committed, more prepared and more focused during the interview.

5. Check any preconceived notions at the door. Don’t make assumptions about sources based on their title or position. Be eager and ready to listen and absorb their unique story. (more…)

Posted in Communication skills, Conversation, Interviews, Sources | Comments Off

No such thing as ‘just a meeting’

February 7, 2011

My colleague and I left a bit exuberant after a three-hour meeting with a client Friday. We’d wanted to map out an initial strategy for this year’s direct-mail campaign – and we left with that in hand and much more. It was one of those meetings where idea after idea came flowing, and each person’s next great thought fed directly off another person’s last great thought.

How did that happen?

Let me tell you – it didn’t just happen. Each of us had spent a bit of time thinking and preparing before walking into that 2:30 meeting.

It’s something we may not do often enough. In her new book Shut Up and Say Something, author Karen Friedman writes:

“ … there is no such thing as just a meeting. Every meeting poses opportunities for discussion, generating ideas, producing outcomes, and positioning yourself with your peers. Whether it’s a quick update or weekly requirement, the impression you make on peers can indirectly affect your raises and promotions. That means you have to prepare.”

Karen describes one senior executive’s approach to meetings. “Robert” told Karen he doesn’t want to show off, so he often remains quiet at meetings. If he feels he should have said something, he comes up with impromptu remarks (which usually aren’t very helpful). Since he deals with high-level information, he doesn’t feel the need to “dumb it down” for others at the meeting. He also admitted to Karen that speaking up in front of his boss, a savvy and impressive speaker, is intimidating.  (more…)

Posted in Communication skills, Meetings | Comments Off