Talking is overrated. Sure. we all need to tell our story, but we need to make sure someone–the right someone–is listening. So, start by listening to them.
And listen to learn not to respond.
The man in the picture is my father, Harry Maynard. He was a pharmacist in a local drug store in my hometown. His client’s were mostly older people and people from other cultures (mostly Hispanic). Harry spent his day not only deciphering doctor-scrawled prescription but trying to get the straight story from his customers. As he used to always say, “if I get something wrong, it could mean someone’s life.” So, listening to the story from the patient as well as reading the instructions from the doctor, were critical to the success of his day. And he had a loyal following of customers–and doctors for over 30 years.
The point is to listen more than talk. Studies show that listening increases learning and familiarity. Your recall improves. And you have a happier person on the other side of the conversation.
And, remember, it is a conversation, a two-way exchange. Plus, it is just common courtesy to be ;polite and let people have their say.
Relentless
