Summary of Robin Roberts’ Masterclass on Effective and Authentic Communication

6 key takeaways from the Emmy-winning anchor of Good Morning America

masterclass.com

1. Make your mess your message. Every difficulty that is placed in your path is there to teach you something. Whenever life gets you down, ask yourself, what am I supposed to learn from that, and more importantly, what can I share with others? Take what you have gone through and make something meaningful out of it so that others who are going through the same thing can be helped. Once you realize what the message is that you’re supposed to get from the experiences you had, share it with others, and be of service.
2. Showing vulnerability is strength, not weakness. When Robin was reporting the news of a hurricane in her hometown, she broke down and cried on national television, having been worried sick about the safety of her family. She thought it would have cost her job, but just the opposite, everyone surrounded her with warmth and support. They saw her pain and felt that they understood theirs, and respected her authenticity in showing her true emotions. People want you to be real with them.
3. Let them know you not only hear them, you see them. Have a genuine interest in people, don’t fake it. Have good manners to show others that you respect them. Communicate your message through a personal story that other people will be able to resonate with. Keep it simple, keep it concise, and show that you’re more focused on connecting than on just saying things. Always consider the other person’s view and their needs. Have a plan and show others exactly how it serves them. Connect by finding common ground and empathizing with others’ experiences.
4. Proximity is power. Robin learned this through her previous career in sports. You don’t just stand there and wish for the ball to come to you, you need to position yourself where you’re most likely to get the ball. Do the things you need to do, and learn the things you need to learn, and put yourself where you need to be in order to get the things you want. Be creative in finding a way to stand out and get your foot in the door. Do your research and prepare yourself as best as you can for when opportunity comes knocking. Reach out to people at the top for advice, not just asking for a job. When they see you’re sincere and…