The English language is a curious animal; we oftentimes make statements or write instructions, absolutely convinced that we make perfect sense. Until we get a strange look, a blank stare, a response that makes no sense whatsoever, or an outright “Huh??” Or when we go back to it later for one reason or another and realize “Hmmm… I don’t remember what I really meant by that…” Sound familiar? Things don’t always come out the way they were meant. It's true of everyone, from time to time, albeit some more than others.
And the margin for misinterpretation increases ten-fold when it’s in writing, rather than verbal communication. We’re all over-committed, racing through our day, multi-tasking, and often, our mouth and fingers sometimes get ahead of our analytical skills or better judgment. It’s amazing how fast and easily you can confuse the heck out of people, or worst case, destroy your reputation and credibility these days by keystroke.
In any case, once something comes out of your mouth or you hit the send or post button, it's out there for your boss, coworkers, customers, and more often than we realize, the entire world to see. You own it forever, you literally can't take it back, so it’s vitally important it conveys as intended. Once you make the mistake once or twice of being less than clear in your communication-- as we’ve all done -- that should be enough to make you more diligent in ensuring you are.
Sounds easy, right? But the ability to write clear, unambiguous instructions and communications is truly an art. Our own Pat Baldwin, CSEO, is conducting a great class to assist escrow folks in sharpening their skills in communicating clear instructions and learn how to ensure that what you say and write has both the intended impact and as few unintended consequences as possible. Please join us! Details below:
Class to be held on:
Tuesday, May 15, 2012, 9:30am until 12:30pm
Class to be held at:
Green Street Realty
3131 E. Camelback Road, suite 410
Phoenix AZ 85016
3131 E. Camelback Road, suite 410
Phoenix AZ 85016
For more information or to RSVP:
Contact: Bernadette Espinosa
Email: BEspinosa@fnf.com
Contact: Bernadette Espinosa
Email: BEspinosa@fnf.com
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