The Nuances of "Genuine" Communication: The Case of "I Genuinely Look Forward to Meeting You

As a motivational speaker, mindset, and confidence coach, I work with people every day on how to communicate effectively. A tool that's made a significant impact on my communication is ChatGPT by OpenAI. It's an intelligent machine that drafts emails, formulates thoughts, and even drafts blog posts like this one. But even with its brilliance, there's a nuance that AI, being in its early stages, might not fully grasp: the complexity of human language, particularly when it comes to the word "genuine."

Why "Genuine" Can Be Problematic

When we communicate vulnerably, confidently, and openly, it's crucial to be aware of the language we use. Phrases like "I genuinely look forward to meeting you" or "to be honest" may seem harmless but can actually induce scepticism. Why? Because when you emphasise your honesty or sincerity, you inadvertently raise the question: "Is he not always sincere or honest?" It's a quirk in human communication, one that can subtly create barriers rather than build bridges.

The Outside-In Approach

So, what's the alternative? Speak from the "outside in." This means that before communicating, understand whom you're speaking to and adapt your message accordingly. If you're talking to someone for the first time, avoid phrases that could be misinterpreted due to the lack of an existing relational context. When delivering a presentation, I always request a briefing call to understand my audience better. This allows me to tailor my message in a way that will resonate most with them.

The Role of ChatGPT

ChatGPT can be a transformative tool in crafting effective communication, but remember, it's only as good as what you feed into it. It's a tool, not a mind-reader. If you have a particular style or tone you want to convey, make sure to guide the AI in that direction.

Effective communication is more crucial than ever in our complex world. My challenge for you is threefold:

1. **Speak from the Outside-In

Understand your audience before crafting your message.

2. **Be Mindful of Phrases  

Scrutinise your language to ensure you're not inadvertently creating barriers of mistrust.

3. Use ChatGPT Wisely

It's a fantastic tool but one that should be directed and corrected as needed.

So, the next time you're about to send an email or step onto a stage, take a moment to think about your words. Your choice of language could be the difference between creating a lasting connection and unintentionally sowing seeds of mistrust.