70Using CLAPP to Communicate Effectively
THERE IS A big difference between talking and communicating. At The Program, we don’t try to change the way anyone talks. When you are spending time with friends, teammates, or co-workers, talk how you talk. Based on numerous factors, we all may talk differently; we may have different accents or use different slang. However, when we are “communicating” information, whether during a staff meeting, a time out, or a mission brief, there are very specific ways in which we do so.
CLAPP is how we communicate effectively. It stands for Clear, Loud, with Authority, Pauses, and good Posture.
- Clear: We can say all the right things, but if it isn’t received by our intended audience, it does us no good. Speaking clearly is paramount to ensuring that all our information is received. Many people mumble. Don’t. Annunciate your words. What may seem an appropriate tempo in our heads often is spoken much too quickly for our audience to understand, especially if speaking with a microphone. Speak more slowly than you think you should.
- Loud: Speak at the appropriate volume. For most people, this means, speak loudly. Not only will this ensure that everyone hears what you are saying, but it displays confidence in your messaging as well. Of course, “loud” is relative. Speaking loudly in a small conference room may mean that your volume is barely above that of your normal voice. Speaking loudly on the goal line in Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska, with ...
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