The Art of Intentional Dialogue

Yes, communication is an art.  When done correctly, it takes on an art form all its own.  We all know people that like to talk, (I have been mentioned in those lists) and we all know people that can write, or speak, and even can spin great ideas.  Yet, to get the message across and ensure that action is taken in the proper direction, the best leaders must communicate as if creating art.

First, you need to be aware of your subject.  As a painter, you must know who you are painting, their age, gender, profession and intentions for the painting.

Second, you must know the set, including lighting, background and props.

Third, when creating a painting, the frame, colors used, and the canvas along with how and where the painting will be displayed are factors you must take into consderation.

Being an effective leader means finding a better way to communicate.  This art form is one that must be continually perfected and adjusted.  All of the same aspects as the painter need to be considered:

1.  Who are you speaking to?  Great leaders adjust to their audience.  They know that speaking to a seasoned veteran of the industry is not the same as speaking to a college aged entry level administrator.  Understand that their needs are different, their experiences are different and how they filter what you say will be different.
2.  What is the context?  Is the timing perfect, is the climate in the office or group up or is it down?  What type of pressures are you and the person (s) being communicated to under? 
3. How does what you are saying personally effect the receiver?  Are you delivering this message in writing, in person, to a group, or one-on-one.  All of these factors will contribute to how you say the what you say.

No question, that the final product, the art of what you say, is really in the how you say it.  Always form your conversations to be focused on the issue, and done so in a direct, yet gentle manner.  When you start thinking about your communications as important as the artist does their painting, you will then take care in how and what you say. 

The final thought on this, the right conversation at the wrong time is the wrong conversation.  Even the best modern painting will not appeal if it is being displayed in a romantic period gallery.  You need to know the right time to communicate.