|
Ken Chapman & Assoc. |
Close
Window |
|
|
Article Tell Time on Their Clock “Find out what makes them tick, then tell time on their clock.” This was one man’s solution for getting along well with other people. Find out what makes them tick, learn to understand them, then, tell time on their clock. Identify with other people and speak their language. There is an old story which Mark Twain was said to have been the first to tell. It is about a Missouri farmer who ran five times for the state legislature without winning. It wasn’t because he didn’t practice his speeches; he rehearsed his campaign talks every day while milking. He referred to himself as “Your humble aspirant.” He referred to his audiences as “My enlightened constituents.” He talked of obtaining a mandate for his “legislative mission.” Then one day, his cow balked at his speeches and kicked him in the teeth. With his front tooth knocked out, the farmer could speak only words of one syllable. The result was that he won his next election and kept getting reelected. However Twain felt about the electorate of his day, the story still sheds light on the importance of “telling time on their clock.” A highly educated and eloquent politician may not relate to his/her constituency. Many hard working, plain folk appreciate straight talk in plain language. They distrust those who seem to “put on airs” and feel as if that candidate might just try to “put one over on them.” However, they can relate to one who speaks their language. This is a person who knows what makes them tick. This is someone who identifies with their plight and lets them know it. The principle works well for non-politicians as well. If it is important to relate well to others, first learn what makes them tick. How well do you know what makes the people around you tick? How well do you know what makes the important people in your life, such as your family, tick? In this global community, how well do you know those of diverse backgrounds? See what you can do to understand how people from many parts of the world and many different backgrounds tick. Then, tell time on their clock. Let them know you understand. Speak their language. You may be amazed at the way others will respond. For more information about Ken Chapman and Associates’ Leadership Development Programs, contact Ken Chapman at 205.366.0265 or email Ken at kchapman@leaderscode.com. <End> |
||
|
Copyright © .
All rights reserved. Ken Chapman & Associates, Inc. |