Effective communication is 20% what you know and 80% how you feel about what you know” is a thought-provoking quote that underlines the importance of emotional intelligence in communication. It suggests that knowledge alone is not sufficient for effective communication; instead, the way one feels about that knowledge, and how they express those feelings, plays a larger role.
The 20% of the quote refers to the factual content of communication. This includes the knowledge, data, and information that we communicate to others. This part is essential as it forms the basis of the message we want to convey.
However, the quote places more emphasis (80%) on how we feel about what we know. This encompasses our passion, conviction, and confidence in the information we’re sharing. It’s about how we deliver the message, our tone, body language, and the emotions we express. Essentially, it’s about the way we make others feel about the information we’re sharing. If we’re passionate and enthusiastic about our message, it’s more likely to resonate with others and be impactful.
In today’s world, this idea is more relevant than ever. In the era of information overload, what differentiates impactful communication from mere information sharing is the emotional connection it creates. Whether it’s in business, politics, or personal relationships, the messages that tend to stand out are those that evoke emotions and feelings.
In terms of personal development, this quote can be a guide for improving communication skills. It suggests that to be an effective communicator, one should not just focus on accumulating knowledge but also on developing emotional intelligence. This includes being aware of one’s own emotions, managing them, and understanding the emotions of others. It also involves developing skills like empathy and the ability to express one’s feelings effectively. This way, one can not only deliver a message but also create an emotional impact that makes the message more memorable and influential.
