Give Me An Example
While communication may be
achieved faster and more conveniently than ever before; that is no guarantee
that we can, automatically, communicate effectively. In many respects our true
accomplishment is that we can spread confusion and frustration at unprecedented
speed.
Key To Effective
Communication
Regardless the various
methods that are made available to us; one issue about communication remains
the same; did the other party understand our message? The type of technology or
medium we use for communication is a secondary concern. However, the opposite
often occurs. When people make contact with others, understanding the message
is taken for granted, even when the topic is complex. Fortunately, there is a
technique that we can borrow from early mankind to aid our communication
efforts…storytelling or examples.
Ironically, short stories
or examples are often used in training, schools and textbooks, but are rarely
used in important business discussions (including insurance). Any person who
wants to better understand their policy needs, coverages and exclusions, should
just ask for examples. Insurance policies are contracts and, like other legal
documents, can be confusing. Often an illustration is more useful than a
detailed discussion of policy language. Instead of trying to dissect how one
policy part modifies or makes exception to another, ask the speaker if they can
demonstrate their point.
A person who can create a
good example is someone who has a thorough understanding of his subject and
that understanding can be passed along to the listener. The listener often
appreciates the work it takes to create examples and this can ease future
communication. So take an active role whenever you communicate with an
insurance professional and ask: Can you give me an example?
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