The Many Rules of Language
Guest Post – Gabriela Robles, Chief Executive
Being “impeccable with our words” frequently crosses my mind. We often emphasize the “T.H.I.N.K” message to our children once they are old enough to comprehend it. If you’re unfamiliar with T.H.I.N.K, it encourages pausing before speaking and asking if what you are about to say is truthful, helpful, inspiring, necessary, and kind. If it isn’t, the method suggests, it’s best to keep those words to yourself. With so many guidelines concerning words, it’s not surprising that some of us don’t speak up.
I’ve had to consider words from a young age, acting as an interpreter for my parents and neighbors. The rules and norms surrounding language and communication have evolved, and as a society, we continually reassess which words are appropriate to use. Additionally, the different ways organizations communicate add another layer of complexity to the pressure I may feel when expressing myself.
Even though I’m used to living in a bilingual world, there are challenges to the new rules around words. I can, and have been, a bridge between groups who speak different languages, and now I get to go a step further as a conduit between Providence, St. Joseph Fund (SJF), and our communities and partners.
My team and I are responsible for communicating with our partners to accurately represent their voices to our Board and Providence. Some of our community partners do not speak English as their primary language, so ensuring that our language can be translated accurately while maintaining its original meaning presents a unique challenge.
Even if the narrative is the same, the translation isn’t as easy to communicate, allowing misunderstandings that may have consequences. I try to speak slowly, intentionally, and impeccably. For me, it’s crucial that whatever we are communicating, from saying hello to new partners to sharing our trust-based philanthropy philosophy, the mission and vision of Providence, and the analytical budget forecasting, is clear to all audiences in front of me.
It’s deeper than a word-for-word translation. It’s also about interpretation, focusing on the rules of communication, and ultimately remembering the golden rule—actions speak louder than words.
Do you find yourself struggling to get the right words out? Let me know, as I’d love to explore this more. And if we aren’t connected on LinkedIn yet, please follow me so that we can continue this thoughtful conversation.
