December 29, 2009
A Resolution to "Speak Up" in 2010
In a recent discussion about the problems of email communication, a friend cited the quote, “The written word in the hands of a master is a poor substitute for the spoken word.” My initial reaction was suspect as misunderstandings arise with the spoken word as well -- but then my friend added that the source of this quote is Ernest Hemingway, one of the greatest writers of all time. From that self-effacing angle, I began to see Hemingway’s point. The written word – whether presented in a great literary work, a news article, an email, or a tweet – effectively conveys issues and ideas. But the spoken word still wields more power to move minds, motivate action, or drive home a strong point.
In fact, Hemingway’s observation seems to ring even truer today. In business, the electronically “written word” has overtaken the use of the “proper” letter, the phone call and the in-person meeting. Its ubiquity has, in some ways, diminished written language’s impact as a whole; more is actually less in that it is more shallowly processed, more fleeting, and perhaps, more likely forgotten. It’s also more commonly misused to convey critical or sensitive subject matter.
After pondering Hemingway’s reminder of the power of the spoken word, I find myself more frequently picking up the phone and stopping by for a personal visit to communicate and build stronger relationships. As we approach the setting of resolutions for the new year, perhaps we should “Speak Up” more in 2010.
Posted by Application Administrator at 12/29/2009 10:18:34 AM |