Get Your Point Across

This political season I've been watching some of the debates and speeches from the candidates and it's fun to see how they handle themselves in front of reporters - especially during the question and answer session. It's got me to thinking after the 'song and dance' is over, what do I remember about what the candidates said? Some are really good at it. Others are terrible and when they go off script, their words get taken and spun into something they didn't even want to be remembered for.

When we're trying to get a point across to someone else we often think long and hard about what we want to say. That is the wrong way to do it though. Instead of focusing on what you want to say to get your point across, you should focus on what you want the other person to hear.

What do I want to say?
Really think about what you want to say before you say it. Practice it if you have to or write it down. Remember, it is important to be concise, precise and specific in choosing your words, regardless of whether you write them or speak them.

Who is my audience?
Your audience matters a lot. The better you know your audience, the easier it will be to tailor your message to them.

How do I reach them?
In the political debates, the candidates have been using all ways of communication. However, if you are trying to reach a particular audience, study what they use most and communicate to them through that. For example, you wouldn't use a computer to target a senior citizen group. You would most likely use the newspaper or radio.

Manage this issue
Again, don't forget your main purpose. Increase your chances of getting your point across by focusing more on the receiver than the sender. Tailor your message to your audience and don't worry so much about what you want to say. Say what you want them to hear and understand.

Tip: Write down your key points and keep the number of points to a minimum. Practice fitting those key messages into what your saying and stick to them. Don't stray far from your main key messages or they will get lost.