With all kinds of new technology and social media platforms popping up every day, it seems easier than ever to stay in contact and communicate with the whole world. It doesn’t even require a lot of effort, just a portable laptop — which come in extra small packages these days – or a smart phone. So why is it that the real value of our words is going down the drain?
Even he didn't say much and he could be heard almost ANYWHERE
Part of this is our own fault for relying too much on technology. There’s less effort put into meeting up with a friend or family member for a quick lunch. Making communication easier has made us less aware of the importance of following through and actually speaking. Personal relationships have decreased in favor of the blogosphere or Facebook.
With the upcoming Presidential election, it’s important to take more pride and responsibility in our words, our communication, and listening and hearing content. That annoying little habit of saying “like” after every other word? That was OK when you were 13. Part of being a responsible adult pertains not just to our professional lives, but also to our communication. As students, you’re going to be primed as the leaders of the future; it is important to recognize this gift and own it.
Your Presidential vote is also your future, take some time out to inform yourself on what the candidates stand for. Yes, it is true that many of their speeches and debates will be ridden with white noise you should avoid, but the important thing to do is to INFORM yourself. Educating yourself on issues is a practice you’ll continue even after the election, making you highly employable. Try news feeds like cnn.com or huffingtonpost.com. If you’re in a real rush, newser is a great place to catch up on headlines with a short and readable summary.
As to the nonsense words you use to fill silences, start thinking a little more before speaking. This will cause you to have a fully formulated sentence before speaking, but if you should have a silence somewhere…it’s OK! No need to add “like,” “so,” “um,” etc. Some thoughts to keep your message in line:
Are you really saying what you want to say?
Is that person going to understand your needs and goals?
If not, could you reword it and still make the message clear?
Remember: being too wordy may lose the listener.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in preparing and physically relocating to New York City, it’s that if you can write and communicate your ideas well, your career will soar. While social media is all good and fun, it’s only effective when used properly. So go out and use your voice, your thoughts, and yes, your phone (in fact, you could download the Campus Clipper App RIGHT NOW)!
Written by: Lauren A. Ramires
If you’re interested in finding out more about my opinions and ventures with social media, social media marketing, fashion, travel and humor, follow me on Twitter, Facebook or my blog.
