Is your Communication Clear?

Open and transparent communication is the backbone of any relationship, whether in your personal or professional life.

My work involves communication skills in keynote speaking, business training, TV punditry, and commentating. While it’s essential to get things right, we’re human, and occasionally, despite years of experience, we still get things wrong!

I was a TV Pundit covering a game for beIN Sport in the Middle East. The live broadcast team comprised various elements in the studio or the adjacent gallery. During the broadcast, we communicated via ‘talkback’, and my earpiece was in and ready for any information or instruction from the Producer in charge. He was one of the best, an Englishman poached from SKY with decades of experience. And so, we went live to millions……

It was the build-up segment before the game. I stood before the giant touchscreen, which showed the tactics each team would likely employ, and started moving players around the screen.

Then, I received my first communication: In my ear, the Producer said, “Tony, move to your left.” So, I duly shuffled to my left.

Again, the Producer was back in my ear, saying, “Tony, no, go to your right.” Another shuffle to the right followed.

Once again, the Producer was back “Tony, go closer, go closer”. So, I stepped within an inch of the giant touchscreen.

I was in the middle of my sermon about the Italian team’s tactics when the Producer’s final instruction landed in my ear: “Tony, go further away.” So, I stepped back to the position I originally started in! I felt like I was doing the Highland Fling while moving players around the touchscreen!!

During the next ad break, I shouted down my microphone to the Producer, “What the hell was that all about?” He replied, “Apologies, the cameraman’s name is also Tony.” 

Just when you think you’ve got this communication thing nailed!

#Communication #Leadership #DreamTeam #BoomerangKeynote