Address the Elephant, Part II

There is something delightfully refreshing about a person who comes right out and tells it like it is.  Here are a few reasons why.

1. It shows the speaker knows his audience.  He anticipates their hidden (or not so hidden) bias and, instead of dancing around the issue, answers the question before they even ask it.  He isn’t naive.  He knows what is coming.
2. It gives the speaker credibility.  He is smart enough to know that the “elephant” can hinder his ability to communicate.  By tackling it and bringing it out into the open, he demonstrates his skill at communicating effectively.
3. It is rare.  Most people are not used to clear, straightforward communication, especially from people in positions of power.  We’re naturally skeptical.  A speaker gets attention by presenting his case in a straightforward manner.
4. It catches people off guard – and grabs their attention. 
5. It can be very, very humorous.  And audiences love to laugh.

“Addressing the Elephant” should happen not only in public speeches, but in every form of communication: conversations, letters, emails, newsletters, meetings, and even in the classroom.  The more we address obvious issues right up front and without hesitation, the more likely our audience will be to listen, think, ponder, and then act.