Anyone out there trying to get a project funded?
Maybe, some of you are trying to get the attention of leaders in your organization to try an idea that is important to you?
Perhaps you’re frustrated that colleagues don’t agree with your viewpoint, and no one seems to listen?
Or, some say “your explanations are just so dry, we miss your entire point.”
Yes?
Consider: that in healthcare, and as scientists, we are taught to memorize our facts, build on scientific principle, and be rigorous. We rarely take the time to learn storytelling and communication. In fact the phrase “tell a story” in medical interview implies that you are lying.
Well, time to change all that. As informaticists, as medical professionals, as scientists, we need to be masters of storytelling. It is the ONLY thing that changes minds.
‘Sure, keep doing the great science that we all do, but let’s learn to communicate.
One of my favorite instructors in communication is Andy Goodman. At his website, you can sign up for his newsletter (and read archival issues, here is a good example about SMALL stories, and another one about Powerpoint use). His center is dedicated to improving the communication of all-important non-profit companies.
Here’s an example of his paradigm shifting ideas: “Why are non-profits named after things they are NOT? Why not name them for things they are FOR? Non-profits should be called “Public Interest companies.” Huh. How about that?
And, watch his talk above.
CMIO’s take? We all need to talk gooder.
