How to Coach Yourself and Others How to Influence, Persuade and Motivate | Page 57

2.2.5 Decoding
Decoding happens when you receive the message that has been sent. The
communication skills required to decode a message successfully include
the ability to read and comprehend, listen actively, or ask clarifying
questions when needed.

This is where most people will fail to persuade or influence another
person. They will not understand how the other person decodes
information. Everyone is used to communicating in their own way - we do
what is comfortable for us. For example, maybe }prefer to email you. But
you would actually be better able to decode my message if we were faceto-face. So I need to pay attention to how you prefer to decode
information if I am going to be successful at persuading you or
influencing you. I need to then deliver my information to you in the
method that you prefer so that your ability to decode the information is
not a barrier to persuasion.

2.2.6 Receiver
Since you have thought out your message, you've certainly also thought
about what you want the desired result to be on the part of your listener.
But it's important to realize that each person that receives your message
will be listening to it through their own individual expectations, opinions,
and perspectives. Their individual experiences will influence how your
message is received.

If you are attempting to influence or persuade an entire group, you won't
always be able to address each person's individual concerns in a message.
But you should know who the key decision makers are that you need to
persuade, and address your message in a way that is most likely to appeal
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