Authenticity Over Skills

 Why you have everything you need to be a great communicator right now

The relief and emotion on the rescued Chilean miners' and their families' expressions were priceless. As they praised the men who had taken them to the surface after 69 days underground, I was moved to tears.

A moment like that has an indelible impact, and the visceral feeling it can elicit serves as a reminder of humanity's powerful bond. It is via this link that outstanding communicators are able to communicate effectively. More than perfected abilities or prepared speech, authenticity will always pull us in.

For example, just the other night, my friend shared the incredible experience of hearing Mother Theresa speak at a Presidential Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C. years ago. The picture at this meeting is the leaders from churches and representatives of organizations from around the world. Of course, our President and First Lady (at this time it was President Clinton) are there seated at the dais as Mother Theresa speaks:

Not with her movements or oratory talents, but with her simplicity of purpose and genuine feeling, she grabs this audience of hundreds of people. Her compassion for children and enthusiasm for her work captivates an audience that has been listening to political speeches practically every day for decades.

Soft-spoken and humbly dressed, Mother Theresa is considered one of the most captivating keynote speakers in the history of those Presidential Prayer Breakfasts.

I do not mean to dilute the value of lessons learned; skills are extremely important. I teach them on a daily basis, but the number one ingredient to communicating on a memorable emotional level is authenticity.

Release your cares of what others think of you, your outfit, your hair, your business experience and share, with transparency, your passion. Not only will you connect more, but you will also have a sense of freedom that you will never want to give up once you experience it!

This may appear to be easier said than done. It may take the assistance of a coach to overcome any assumptions or concerns that are preventing you from becoming a fully authentic communicator, but it will be well worth it!