Stages of Communications Growth: Focus on Being Efficient and Effective

The communications process is a key component of every aspect of life. Organizations are comprised of people and our communications patterns are complex. Therefore, the goal is to become better communicators in all that we do. To do this, and grow in our communications, we must strive to achieve the maximum level of efficiency and effectiveness in our communications.

Note: the goal is (top right/green quadrant) as per the “E” model below. Therefore, I developed and created this model.

Our world is noisy, has a short attention span, and moves rapidly in nature. In consulting/speaking with people across the country, I ask them what level of “competence” their communication is in? And, then ask how effective and efficient they are? So, today, I am asking you the same thing. Let’s look at four common stages of communication development.

The first stage is referred to as the unconsciously incompetent segment. In this stage, a person is not aware of what s/he knows. Many people think they know more than they do and tend to overestimate their overall knowledge, skills, and abilities of communications. This can be (if someone is not coached) quite dangerous.

The second stage of communications is that of being consciously incompetent. In this stage, a person is now aware of how much s/he knows or does not know. It is during this second level that a person realizes their need to learn, grow, and improve — and is no longer “over-confident.”

The third stage is often referred to as consciously competent. A person is cognizant of what s/he is doing well and competent at what s/he does. Moreover, a person in this stage is committed to “lifelong learning” and developing more efficient and effective communication skills. They have become solid communicators but still need to think about it (as it is not yet second nature) and realize that they must continue growing to reach the highest level.

The final developmental segment is an unconsciously competent communicator. A person in this final/fourth stage has become so competent, that they no longer must think about their communications strategies. Simply said, their competence is ingrained into their DNA and has become second nature to them.

We all seek to become better communicators (the key to life) and thus must have the unconsciously competent (fourth) stage as our goal. With that said, we should never stop learning something new each day. In this stage, individuals have mastered the proper balance of highly efficient and effective communications as well.

What level of communications competence are you in? How far are you from reaching the final stage? Are you an effective and efficient communicator (top right/ green quadrant of “E” model) who communicates (all mediums/channels) the best way? If not, what quadrant are you in? Do you want to grow? Good. You are in the right place at the right time.

There is no better time than right now to strengthen your skills to become a more effective and efficient communicator (no matter what your organizational position/title is). This growth will make you more successful in every aspect of your life.

Let’s connect and I will help you (in short time and in simple ways) improve your communications. This is the key to your current and future success. Twitter: @RyanSauers E: Ryan@RyanSauers.com P: 678-825-2049