7 Secrets Of Communicating Unconsciously

The most important thing to know about effective communication is that most of it is unconscious. That means that people are forming opinions about what you say without really knowing the reason why. Most people plan communication consciously and logically and that's a big reason why most communication doesn't work.

So, if you know what works unconsciously, you can make your communication so much more effective. The key is to make the secrets of unconscious communication conscious so that you can use them easily.

The term unconscious mind is open to different interpretations - and even different descriptions as some prefer the term subconscious or non-conscious. There is too much happening at any moment in time for us to be aware of it all consciously. For example, if I ask you your phone number, you will probably tell me the number quickly. But where was that information a few seconds ago?

If someone asks you to pick something up from the floor, you won't need to work out how to move each muscle. The part of the mind that helps us move quickly in those situations is called the adaptive unconscious. The role of the unconscious mind is well described by the psychologist Timothy D Wilson in his book "Strangers to Ourselves" when he says:

"The mind operates most efficiently by relegating a good deal of high-level, sophisticated thinking to the unconscious, just as a modern jetliner is able to fly on automatic pilot with little or no input from the human 'conscious' pilot."

So to communicate successfully, we need to be able to influence the unconscious mind.

Here are seven keys to influencing the unconscious mind to make your communication more effective.

Speed: Most people make up their mind unconsciously about something within 2 - 6 seconds so you only have a moment to make an impression.

Simplicity: Often in communication, we suffer from the 'curse of knowledge' - trying to say too much. The most effective messages are clear and simple.

Surprise: Your communication can be more effective if it challenges normal expectations or arouses curiosity.

Specificity: You need to say exactly what you mean. Specific details engage the unconscious.

Stories: The easiest way to overcome people's resistance to information is through interesting stories. Stories can create emotions and they can also enable people to picture themselves in a situation.

Stir emotions: You need to make them feel that they care about the issue if you want them to take action. People can be affected by both negative and positive emotions.

Using all the Senses: If you use each of the senses when communicating the message will get across more powerfully. This can be in the words you use or by using pictures and objects.

You probably can't hit all of these hot buttons every time but even one or two can have a big impact on your communication.