MESSAGING
Importance Of Timing in Messaging
By Mariam Abdul
The message is good , the messenger is perfect , but the timing is awfully bad … why is timing so important in message delivery ?
Timing is everything in successful and effective communication , we can all agree . One should always wait until you ’ ve gathered enough and organized all the information you need to get your point across . Always choose a time when both you and the other person or group are open , receptive and ready to communicate .
Effective communication is a critical skill that is essential for success in both personal and professional settings . It is the process of transmitting and receiving information in a way that is clear , concise and accurate . However , what many people fail to recognize is that timing is just as important as the message itself in effective communication . In this article , we will explore why timing is so crucial in effective communication .
When you talk to someone , assuming you ’ re like most people , you tend to focus on what you want to say . There ’ s some sense in this since you want to be clear and understandable . It is possible to phrase your message and meaning perfectly , yet have it rejected , ignored or otherwise demeaned .
Timing plays a critical role in avoiding misunderstandings . It is essential to deliver your message at the right time to avoid confusion and misinterpretation .
For example , if you are trying to resolve a conflict with a friend or colleague , it is best to wait until both parties are calm and in the right frame of mind to discuss the issue . Attempting to resolve the conflict when either party is upset or agitated can lead to further misunderstandings and make the situation worse .
Timing is important in creating a positive and productive environment for communication . When you communicate with someone at the right time , you are more likely to create a receptive and positive environment for your message . This , in turn , can help to build trust , promote cooperation , and foster a more productive working relationship . In many ways , timing is everything in communication .
If for instance you have a great idea you want to pitch to the boss , you may get a terrible reception on one given day , but if you chose another day , you might get a great reception . Clearly , people are more receptive at some times compared to other times .
If you have an important message to share with your colleague , but you choose to do so when they are in a meeting or stressed out , it is unlikely that they will be receptive to your message .
On the other hand , if you wait for the right moment when they are relaxed and open to giving you focused audience , your communication is likely to be much more effective .
We tend to forget this a lot . And then get upset when we don ’ t get the desired impact . Luckily improving timing in communication isn ’ t difficult . It needs conscious thought , curbing impulsiveness and at times even curbing your enthusiasm .
Consider the other person - state of mind , emotions , financial status , economic status , time schedule to assess whether it ’ s a good time to talk about a particular subject . Do this beforehand . During conversations , if you get unexpected negative reactions , think about whether it ’ s that the other person is simply not ready to hear what you have to say . Maybe it ’ s best to continue at another chosen time .
Timing is particularly important with emotional or tough conversations . It ’ s always good to ask the other party if it is a good time to talk now and on the select topic .
Timing is one element of great communication . Timing is the pause needed to give your audience time to assimilate what you are saying . Each thought should be completed by a pause . It is the speaker ’ s way of indicating a comma or a full stop .
In a two way conversation , it indicates to the other person that you are listening to them , considering their thoughts . It shows you are listening and indicates that you feel their words are of importance . In addition , timing is crucial in ensuring that the message is delivered to the right person . Delivering a message to the wrong person or at the wrong time can lead to confusion and mistrust .
Timing can make or break the effectiveness of a message . A message delivered at the wrong time , even by a great messenger , can fall on deaf ears and completely fail to have the desired impact .
Mariam Abdul is the Founder and Managing Director of Niteout Africa . You can commune with her via email at : Info @ niteoutkenya . co . ke .
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