In Session

The official blog of the IABC International Conference.

On Barbecue and Communication (Part II): Simply Asparagus

31st May 2006 by Ron Shewchuk, ABC, MC

The first course of the Communication Cookout is Grilled Asparagus with Roasted Garlic and Chipotle mayo, an amuse-bouche (French for mouth teaser) that will represent the simplicity and power of conversation.

The asparagus is treated simply: the spears are trimmed and tossed with extra virgin olive oil and kosher salt. They’re then placed on a hot grill and cooked for about two minutes, just until they’re slightly charred and they turn a brilliant green. They’re taken off the grill and given a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. That’s it. On the side will be a dollop of mayonnaise flavored with garlic, cumin and fiery chipotles. Simple and delicious.

And so it is with the most direct form of human communication, the conversation. No planning or approvals needed. A meaningful interchange, much like sharing a meal. And, just as the humble asparagus shoot can be ruined by overcooking or overwhelmed by a heavy sauce, we can second-guess and plan ourselves into oblivion, producing soft, sanitized communications that feel like they came out of a can.

Keep your communications simple and direct, in the spirit of a natural conversation. And, like our little mouth-teaser, you will have your audience paying full attention, and hankering for more.

One Response to “On Barbecue and Communication (Part II): Simply Asparagus”

  1. Tom Keefe Says:

    I am SO looking forward to your session. Now to figure out how to take notes when both hands are covered with barbecue sauce.

 

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