In acknowledging a colleague, a friend or a new contact acquired through diligent networking, we have an opportunity (although it may only last a few seconds) to strengthen and deepen the bonding between ourselves, and those we acknowledge. An acknowledgment is a brief greeting when either one or both of the parties is or are either in the midst of another conversation, or in the midst of rapid movement (i.e., rushing to a budget meeting, rushing to a luncheon appointment, or even rushing to a psychotherapist's office to receive treatment for Chronic Rushing Syndrome*). Both parties are usually (and unfortunately) at shouting distance (instead of speaking distance) from each other, but somehow make eye contact.
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* I've invented "Chronic Rushing Syndrome" (not really a Lingovation, but more of a Slingovation [look this term up in Google], which is just pure invention instead of clever wordsmithing and word-melding).
The challenge is to get as much warmth, respect and familiarity across to the other person as possible without the advantage of words. A non-verbal challenge.
Optimize the moment by:
1) Stopping your action and facing the person;
2) Nodding your head (in the affirmative direction);
3) Smiling, and mouthing the word "Hello!);
4) Lifting an arm (encumbered or not) to extend a quick wave.
5) Mouthing the words, "I'll be speaking with you."
Resume your other activity, with the comfort of knowing that you have made a stellar impression. You'd be amazed at the power of the message you've sent (you've truly gone out of your way to pay that person some direct attention) with multiple signals through multiple channels. You'd be even more amazed at how well people can read lips from a great distance when a simple, friendly phrase is used.
Douglas E Castle
http://Links4LifeAlerts.com
1 comment:
Hi Douglas,
Just noticed that you are following me on Twitter, so I thought I would 'check you out'.
I do like your message. In fact the nonverbal communication counts for far more than the verbal. At time, too, 'words' get in the way, of building healthier relationships
Take care
Michael
Dismantling Disabilities
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