Communicating Anything, Allen-Style

Trust comes in part through communication that contains two features: task (underscore precision and authority) and personal (emphasis on empathy and consideration). When someone speaks with noticeable authority and crystal clarity, our trust meter goes up. When someone tries to communicate with us with our welfare obviously in mind, she or he gains our confidence. Interpersonal trust is by definition both personal and interpersonal—as in “between persons.” And the link we have between persons is our manner of communication.

Steve Allen was a master at both aspects of trust-building communication. His booming voice could be heard across a crowded party. And being well over six feet tall didn’t hurt his projection ...

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