How you share information with others is the most important factor governing how it is received.  The targets receptivity can be adjusted by the way the message is delivered.

As the information is passed, the recipients emotional reaction kicks in immediately.  This reaction sets the tone for the entire information exchange.

Sharing information with someone, that is about them is certain to get a reaction.  Many classify these as difficult conversations.  This is because most people are upset when others tell them what they think about them.

Surprisingly this negative reaction can apply for both compliments and criticisms.  As a rule people do not like to be given guidance or recommendations about themselves.

Partly the reason for this is the implied knowledgable or authoritative posture associated with the information provider.  This can even lead to situations where we just want to “shoot the messenger”.  We feel attacked a d want to strike back.

Ways to Share

There are two common terms we use for the practice of sharing suggestions for action, improvement or just awareness,  with others. Although the activity is basically the same, the way it is positioned can really affect the information shares effectiveness.

• Advice – although not everyone owns up to it, people hate getting advice.  One of the quickest ways to shut down receptivity when you have an idea, recommedations or action request of someone , is to call it advice.  Most people immediately steel themselves to thinking they are about to get something they don’t really want.
• Sharing – this implies a two way exchange is a much more palatible classification.  The positioning here is more about an open exchange and less about an authoritative or knowledgeable person telling another what to do.