161. Do Your Homework: Know What to Say by Knowing Who You’re Talking To

Summary

In this episode of 'Think Fast, Talk Smart,' Matt Abrahams speaks with Jen Psaki, former White House Press Secretary, about strategic communication. Jen shares insights on key communication principles such as understanding your audience, thorough research, and staying present in the moment. She discusses the importance of listening actively, tailoring messages, and seeking feedback to continuously improve. Drawing from her experience in high-stakes environments, she also highlights the significance of emotional intelligence and negotiating effectively, even in complex situations. A must-listen for anyone looking to communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact.

Takeaways

• 😀 Know your audience: Tailor your message based on their knowledge level, attitudes, and resistance points to increase engagement and understanding.
• 😀 Research is crucial: A solid understanding of your topic allows you to be agile and responsive, helping you connect better with your audience.
• 😀 Listening is a key communication skill: Effective communicators focus on truly listening and reflecting before responding, especially in interviews or high-pressure situations.
• 😀 Don't oversimplify or overcomplicate: Speak in clear, accessible language without resorting to jargon or unnecessary complexity to ensure your audience stays engaged.
• 😀 Emotional intelligence matters: Sharing appropriate emotions and vulnerabilities in certain moments can make communication more relatable and impactful.
• 😀 Don't accept the premise of every question: Question the assumptions in challenging questions to maintain control of the narrative and provide more thoughtful answers.
• 😀 Practice and preparation lead to confidence: Thorough preparation equips you to be present and responsive in the moment, whether in an interview or a public speaking situation.
• 😀 Feedback is essential: Actively seek and reflect on feedback to improve your communication skills, even if it's uncomfortable or challenging to hear.
• 😀 Stay present and engaged: In a world full of distractions, being truly present in your communication is a rare but invaluable skill that helps build rapport and trust.
• 😀 Negotiation requires optimism and tirelessness: Approach negotiation with the belief that common ground can be found, and be prepared to work tirelessly towards a solution, even if it means compromise.

Q & A

What makes communication about policy issues more challenging than other topics?

Communicating about policy issues is more challenging because these topics are often complex, nuanced, and involve a range of perspectives and stakeholders. The stakes are high, and the language used can be technical and difficult for many to understand, making effective communication crucial.

Why is making complex ideas accessible an important skill for communicators?

Making complex ideas accessible is vital because it allows a wider audience to understand and engage with important topics, especially in fields like policy, where clarity is key to ensuring informed public discussions and decisions.

How does being present in the moment improve communication?

Being present in the moment helps communicators actively listen, engage with their audience, and respond appropriately. In a world where many people are eager to speak without fully listening, being present ensures better understanding and more meaningful exchanges.

What is the importance of knowing your audience in effective communication?

Knowing your audience is essential because it helps tailor the message to their knowledge level, attitudes, and potential resistance points. Understanding whether the audience agrees or disagrees with you helps shape the approach for greater impact.

Why is research important for communicators?

Research is important because it ensures communicators are well-informed about the topics they are discussing. It helps them present accurate, credible information and allows them to respond confidently to questions, making them more effective and persuasive.

What does it mean to be 'as much of an expert without being an expert' in communication?

Being 'as much of an expert without being an expert' means understanding a topic deeply enough to speak authoritatively on it while recognizing that there is always more to learn. It involves becoming knowledgeable enough to engage in meaningful conversations without claiming absolute expertise.

What is the role of lowering the barrier for engagement in communication?

Lowering the barrier for engagement means making it easier for people to join the conversation, ask questions, and participate. This involves simplifying complex ideas and creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable engaging with the topic.

How does presence contribute to effective communication under pressure?

Presence contributes to effective communication under pressure by allowing the communicator to stay focused, calm, and engaged. When under pressure, the ability to be present helps maintain clarity and ensures that the message is conveyed with conviction and precision.

What challenges do communicators face when discussing complex political topics?

When discussing complex political topics, communicators face challenges like overcoming bias, addressing misunderstandings, managing resistance, and simplifying intricate details. These topics often require careful handling to ensure that the message is both clear and impartial.

What advice does the guest offer for becoming a more effective communicator?

The guest advises becoming deeply knowledgeable about the topics you're discussing, understanding your audience, being present during conversations, and making an effort to simplify complex ideas. Being authentic and approachable while ensuring that your communication is clear and engaging is also key.