All behaviour, not solely speech or written acts, is communication. Psychologists have long known this. But if all behaviour is communication, this introduces a ticklish problem. You cannot turn off behaviour. Non-behaviour does not exist. Behaviour ceases only through death. As long as you are alive, behaviour is on. Therefore, you cannot turn off communication either, because all behaviour is communication Accordingly: You cannot not communicate. You are always communicating, whether you mean to or not. The intention or message are of little importance. It is how they are experienced and understood that means everything. And leaders have known this for a long time.
This dimension of communication is Alfa and Omega. It has influenced psychology, group dynamics and therapy for years. It explains how you are understood and misunderstood. It illuminates the dark sides of yourself that even you do not see. Above all, it shows how human beings influence one another. Communication always influences other people, for better or worse. It is our strongest weapon of influence. What if you aren’t aware of your own communication? Here leaders often proceed in error. They become loose cannons on the deck. They do not understand that their foremost podium is their own life and actions, not their words. People will forget your speeches but they will remember your deeds. You cannot not communicate.
Comment from an executive director who has taken part in countless management development programmes after attending her first gathering: «These have been some of the most interesting hours I have spent for a long time.»
Kari Skybak, HR Director, Oslo Airport Express
