Ben Decker and Kelly Decker

Overview

Communicate to Influence by Ben Decker and Kelly Decker is a valuable resource for anyone aiming to enhance their communication skills. The book provides practical strategies and techniques for effectively conveying messages and influencing others. Ben and Kelly Decker, co-founders of the Decker Communications consultancy firm, draw on their extensive experience in the field of communication to offer invaluable insights and guidance. By examining the power of effective communication, the authors emphasize the importance of clear and impactful messaging in achieving success in various aspects of life.

Key Points / Ideas

1. The Power of Persuasion: The authors make a strong case for the significance of persuasive communication. They argue that the ability to influence others is crucial for success in both personal and professional settings. By demonstrating the impact of persuasive communication through real-life examples, the book highlights the benefits of mastering this skill.

2. The Elements of Influence: Ben and Kelly Decker break down the key elements of influential communication. They introduce the "Decker Grid System," which consists of four critical components: message, delivery, visual, and audio. By leveraging these elements effectively, individuals can enhance their communication and increase their influence.

3. Crafting Powerful Messages: The book emphasizes the importance of crafting clear and compelling messages. To captivate an audience, the authors stress the need for concise and memorable content. They offer practical tips on shaping messages, including the use of storytelling, statistics, metaphors, and other persuasive techniques.

4. Mastering Non-Verbal Communication: In addition to verbal communication, the authors highlight the significance of non-verbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and gestures. They explain the impact of these non-verbal signals on conveying confidence, credibility, and authenticity.

5. Overcoming Obstacles to Influence: The authors address common obstacles that hinder effective communication and provide strategies for overcoming them. They discuss the challenges of distraction, fear, and lack of confidence, offering guidance on how to navigate these barriers and establish a strong connection with the audience.

Conclusion

Communicate to Influence provides readers with valuable insights and practical techniques for enhancing their communication skills. Ben and Kelly Decker's expertise in the field of communication shines through as they present key strategies and principles for impactful messaging. By illustrating the real-world implications of persuasive communication, the authors highlight the value of this skill in various areas of life. Readers are encouraged to explore the book further to delve into the rich content and gain a deeper understanding of effective communication. For those interested in further reading, other recommended books on communication and influence include Dale Carnegie's How to Win Friends and Influence People and Robert Cialdini's Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion.