I heard this quote on the radio the other day and thought it was a great statement about communication:
“I know you think you understand what you thought I said but I’m not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant.”
Communication is probably the most important, but most difficult aspect of effectiveness in both professional and personal relationships. I know I have a really hard time clearly expressing my thoughts and ideas, which is only half of the communication equation. Listening, sometimes even more difficult, is the other half that often skews and contorts the message with prejudice, misunderstanding and emotions. I believe that communication is a skill that needs to be continuously practiced and can always be improved upon. Here is a great tip to remember:
“To effectively communicate, we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world and use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others.”
I encourage you to focus on your communications skills this month and see what positive effects it will have on your life, as it is the key to personal and professional success.
This month, we are changing our regularly scheduled meeting to a joint meeting with ASPE (American Society of Professional Estimators). This is going to be a really fun and educational mock bid on Tuesday, April 19th, at the University Inn. You will get the opportunity to experience the intensity and excitement that occurs with the estimating team on bid day. Please join us!
Aryn Ferguson – President, Portland Chapter 54
Fortis Construction