Use the 5W's to Communicate

Ask yourself-

WHO: Who are you? Who are you talking to? How well do you know this person? This will help you determine the tone of your voice when speaking to them.

WHAT: What needs to be accomplished? What do I want this person to do? What do I need to do in order to get everything accomplished? This clarifies what needs to happen and who needs to do it.

WHERE: Where does this need to be done? Where does the person I'm communicating with need to go? If you don't say where something needs to go, it won't get there.

WHEN: When do you want it done? Be specific. If you want it done by 6pm tonight, say it!

WHY: Why am I communicating with this person? Why does this need to be done? Communicate why you need this done, give the person a reason. They will do it with more enthusiasm if they know why.

HOW: Does the person your communicating know how you want it done? Ask the person for feedback about what you just asked him/her to do. To make sure they understand and heard you.

You may also want to let the person know to keep you informed about the process.

Using the 5W's will help you communicate effectively and will ensure that you get all your points across. Also, the person you are communicating with will understand what needs to be accomplished and how.