I’ve read a few articles recently that emphasized the monumental importance of proficient oral and written communication. Companies and businesses have found themselves with employees who lack the ability to articulate themselves clearly. One of the most sought after attributes of an applicant is the ability to write and speak with articulation and depth in order to convey message and idea. These are fundamental qualities of any interpersonal transaction, and business does, after all, rely almost entirely on these transactions for success. Our contemporary education model has deemphasized the importance of communication skills in favor of a more technically skilled labor force. The tradeoff has left businesses with brilliant employees with brilliant ideas that go uncommunicated, or ineffective or inefficiently so.
A recent article I read highlighted the importance of writing as paramount to becoming a better communicator. The habit of routine writing, be it journaling or any other task that requires the articulation of thoughts to paper, not only hones and refines your ability to write well, it improves your reading and speaking abilities. It expands your vocabulary and familiarizes you with the proper articulation of ideas. Writing is structured, logical and linear, following grammatically rules and syntax that capture meaning otherwise present in spoken words through gestures, intonation, and other context clues typically present with an interlocutor. The established structures of written communication translate as a major role in the clarity of ideas and thoughts in spoken communication. This translation does not work the same way for spoken communication when translated to written word. While good writers can articulate clear thoughts in spoken word, being a good speaker does not necessitate the clarity of your written word.
It’s late. Lots more on mind mind. Wish I could get it all out tonight.
William Dare 