The foundation of solid communication is NOT to make yourself be heard, to express yourself accurately, or to be non-threatening. Granted, these are all components of communication, but the real core of true communication is understanding where the other person is coming from. In fact, good communication can't exist without honest listening. When it is apparent that you are actively listening to someone, absorbing their point of view, and honestly taking it into consideration-you are setting the groundwork for your needs to be expressed and hopefully understood. Though this may seem paradoxical-the key to communication is more to listen to what the other person is saying then it is to flood him/her with who you are, what you want, and how you feel. Remember, disappointing or no, the ultimate goal of communication is most often compromise. It is rare that you can utterly change someone else's perception, opinions, or behavior entirely. And it is generally unreasonable to expect to do so.

Jeff

The Entrepreneurs Test
Do you have what it takes to succeed in a business of your own?
One of the first questions you must ask yourself when considering if you should go into business for yourself is….. AM I THE TYPE?

To help you, we have developed the following "Test".  Complete the questions that follow and mail or fax your responses to us.  We will send you confidential analysis and recommendations.

Name 
Address 
 
Phone 
E-mail 
Fax 

If someone gets me going, I keep going.
I do things on my own. No-one needs to tell me to get going.
I a very laid back.  I take an "easy does it" attitude.

I have enough friends. I don't need any more.
People bug me.
I like people. I can get along with almost anybody.

I can get people to do things if I drive them.
I can get most people to go along with me without much difficulty.
I usually let someone else get things going.

I like to take charge and see things through.
I'll take over if I have to but I usually like to let someone else get things going.
There is always some "eager beaver" waiting around waiting to show off.  I say, "Let them".

I take things as they come.
I like to plan before I start anything.  I am usually the one who lines things up.
I do alight until things get to complicated.  I like things simple.

I keep going as long as necessary.  I don't mind hard work.
I work hard when I have to but everyone needs a break.
I can't see where hard work gets you anywhere.

I can make up my mind in a hurry if I have to and my decisions are usually right.
I like to have plenty of time to make up my mind.  If I react to quickly I usually regret it.
I don't like to be the one who decides things.

I try to be on the level but sometimes say what is easiest at the time.
I never say things that I don't mean.
I tell people only what they need to know.

When I make up my mind on something I don't let anything stop me.
If something doesn't go smoothly I give up.
I usually finish what I start.
Records are not important.  I can keep everything in my head.
Since they are needed I can keep records even though I don't like it.
I can keep records but work is more important then shuffling papers.

 Yes No
I consider myself creative.  
I have special skills that I think could be turned into a business.  
I have friends that own their own businesses.  
I like to travel.  
I have strong commitments to a hobby.  
I feel uncomfortable asking for help.  
I have a strong commitment to a physical activity or sport I play  
I have a strong ego.  
I can take criticism and not take it personally.