Episode 162

162 - Mastering Communication in a Distracted World

162 - Mastering Communication in a Distracted World

We'll dive into the topic of capturing and retaining attention in an increasingly distracted world. As a host, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to maintain focus in various situations. We will review some useful tips and strategies to help you improve your communication skills and hold your audience's attention.

One of the key things to keep in mind is that attention must be earned, not bought or stolen. That's why I highly recommend checking out "8 Seconds: Communication Secrets for a Distracted World" by Paul Hellman. This book is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to gain people's attention and make a lasting impact through communication.

One of my favorite techniques is using a clear structure in presentations that addresses the audience's questions: why they should listen, what the main topic is, and what action they should take after receiving the information. It's also important to use impactful words and avoid unnecessary details, as saying less can often lead to better understanding and retention of information.

By implementing the strategies we've discussed today, you can make a big difference in how you capture and hold your audience's attention. So, take these tips and put them into practice in your own communication sessions.

https://expresspotential.com/youve-got-8-seconds/

https://startwithsmallsteps.com/?p=3749

Jill’s Links

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps

https://twitter.com/startwithsmallsteps

Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

About the Podcast

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Start with Small Steps
Thoughtful personal growth through small, realistic steps you can use in everyday life.

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About your host

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Jill McKinley

I’m Jill from the Northwoods. Professionally, I work in Health IT, where I untangle complex systems and help people use technology more effectively. But at heart, I’m a curious lifelong learner—always exploring how things work, why people grow the way they do, and how even the smallest steps can spark real transformation. That curiosity fuels everything I do, from problem-solving at work to sharing insights through my creative projects.

My journey wasn’t always easy. Growing up, I faced a rough childhood, and books became my lifeline. They introduced me to voices of ancient wisdom, modern psychology, and the natural world around me. Those pages taught me resilience, gave me perspective, and helped me see that wisdom is everywhere—waiting to be noticed, gathered, and shared.