Yes, you know how
to READ the words in a newsletter article or blog. What I'm talking about
is the ability to read it so you learn something from it that you can apply to
improve your skills or your life.
These tips apply
to any newsletter, blog post or other content.
- Reading takes time
You may skim or
browse the newsletter when it hits your inbox, but then as more email comes in,
it gets pushed to the bottom. If you're not going to have the time to read it
fully now, put it in a "to read later" folder. Then actually
have a time scheduled to go through this folder, when you can focus.
- Make the connection
As you're
reading, try to make the connection between the topic and how it relates to
something you are doing, have done in the past or will be doing in the
future. You might take notes or mark the information that most resonates
with you. The more you make the connection, the more the information will
stick with you.
- Plan how you will use the
information
Think about how
you will implement or try out the idea, strategy or tip from the article. For example, if the article covers how to
practice a presentation, then how will
you apply that to your next presentation? Perhaps you can add a note to
one of your slides now to remember it, or write a reminder on a real or virtual
sticky note.
- Share
To help you truly master the subject, try
explaining and teaching it to someone else. Is there anyone you know who could
benefit from reading this article? If so, send it on to them and offer to
discuss it.
The next time you
see this blog post or any newsletter appear in your inbox or social media feed,
try out these tips, so you can change it from more than just a quick,
nice-to-read article to a valuable part of your learning and skill development.