Master Communicators, Authenticity, and the Legacy of Stephen R. Covey →

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"This article also highlights one of my greatest influences, Stephen R. Covey. You’ll find him featured in more depth under Favorite Authors."

Why are some speakers, teachers, and authors considered masters at what they do? What transforms their work into what we often call “art”? In many cases, it comes down to one quality: authenticity.

When communication is both skillful and sincere—when the speaker is not just informative but genuine—it elevates the experience for the audience. But that raises a deeper question: Is authenticity alone enough to make a message valuable? Or does the final say rest with the audience and whether the message resonates with their own values?

Authenticity vs. Performance

Over the years, I’ve heard speakers who seemed polished, rehearsed, and confident—yet something essential was missing. Their words aligned with their personal brand or message, but they didn’t connect. Why? Because authenticity is more than presentation—it’s about purpose, values, and presence.

In contrast, I once sat near the front row of a talk given by Henry Kissinger around the year 2000. He spoke on the Vietnam War to a group of business professionals. Though a global figure, his message felt impersonal and transactional. There was little evidence of personal values, no meaningful connection to the audience, and no spark of authenticity. It was, frankly, forgettable.

A Masterclass in Authentic Communication: Stephen R. Covey

That same year, I had a much different experience—one that left a lasting impact on how I view communication.

In 1990, I spoke at the same church event as Stephen R. Covey, just months after the release of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Before the meeting began, we sat together and spoke casually. I had heard that Covey was different in private than in public—that the man behind the scenes didn’t always match the powerful figure on stage.

But in our brief conversation, I found him calm, respectful, and quietly confident. He was authentic. When it was his turn to speak, everything about his demeanor changed. He became magnetic—his energy, voice, and presence filled the room. He didn’t use notes, yet he delivered a message rich in clarity, conviction, and connection.

Covey understood his audience and tailored his language to reflect their values and shared experiences. His body language was measured and intentional, almost like a conductor guiding a symphony. His communication wasn’t just effective—it was transformational.

Why He Stood Out

People have speculated about what made Covey so compelling: his bald head, his wardrobe, his spontaneous delivery, or his command of data and storytelling. All of these played a role—but I believe his real strength was credibility. Covey believed in what he said. He was aligned with his message and his mission. And that kind of integrity is impossible to fake.

His book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, continues to influence millions. From “Be Proactive” to “Sharpen the Saw,” his framework empowers individuals to live with intention, align their values with action, and lead with authenticity.

A Final Reflection

This article was originally tied to a book I wrote that has since been removed from major retail platforms. While the publishing journey for that particular book hit a roadblock, the core message remains essential—and is now carried forward more fully in my newest work.

I’ve left this post here not only to honor the influence of Stephen Covey but to emphasize how important authentic communication is to leadership, personal development, and how we connect as human beings. I believe that messages still matter—especially when they come from the right place.

Where to Buy Masterinig The Art of Communication: The Power of Precision in Language →

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Review of Mastering The Art of Communication

• by Jagadeeshwar Gangoji » 22 Sep 2024, 06:21

[Following is a volunteer review of "Mastering The Art of Communication" by Brent M. Jones.]

5 out of 5 stars

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"Mastering the Art of Communication" is a book by Brent M. Jones that starts with the importance of having proper communication. The book thoroughly explores the impact of communication on relationships and its role in facilitating learning. The book also discusses techniques to improve a person's communication skills effectively.

I must say that I liked the part "Using Correct Terminology." I like the way the author explains the importance of using correct language and the right words for effective communication. The author used proper examples to show that different words can have different meanings in other regions. The author highlighted that accurate communication needs appropriate language by mentioning specific well-known figures.

I also like the concept of networking mentioned. Every professional must know that networking can not just make or break your career but can also be one of the major tools in making you an effective communicator.

After reading the book, I felt like I had nothing to dislike about it, and also, no sexual references or profanity were found inside the book.

The book is completely error-free; I found no grammatical mistakes or typos while reading the book, which is truly appreciable.

I would like to rate the book a solid 5 out of 5. The book deserves a full score for its effective approach to mastering the art of communication. The author's real-time examples are commendable. He had solely focused on the essential concepts and avoided the other unnecessary details. This book is such a boon to the people who are uncommunicative and struggle with communication every single day.

I recommend this book to every single person, irrespective of any criteria. People who are professionals, who are into business, and entrepreneurs will find it so informative. Anyone who is going to attend a meeting, seminar, or job interview will find it much more informative.
Happy Reading!!

Mastering The Power of Communication E-Book Available Exclusively at Connected Events Matter Online Shop →

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Available in E-Book only on Connected Events Matter’s Online Store. (She Shop on Dashboard or us the link above)

Reviews of Mastering THe Art of Communication →

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Dan Diaz

5.0 out of 5 stars Mastering the Basics: Essential for Future Success

Reviewed in the United States on June 13, 2024

This book may seem basic at first glance, but don't let that fool you. This book lays down the fundamental building blocks for anyone serious about improving their communication skills. As someone who has delved into many self-help and professional development books, I can confidently say that the principles outlined here are not only foundational but absolutely crucial for long-term success.

What makes this book stand out is its focus on becoming an interesting speaker and communicator, not just on the techniques. It’s about transforming into someone who can convey ideas with clarity and precision. This approach ensures that readers are not just learning how to communicate but are evolving into compelling wordsmiths.

The basics are what matter most. By focusing on these core principles, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any communication challenge that comes your way in the future. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills in a meaningful and lasting way.

---

SHAUN

5.0 out of 5 stars A must read

Reviewed in the United States on November 12, 2023

"Brent M. Jones's guide is a concise masterclass in communication. Starting with the basics of terminology and building up to the art of nonverbal cues and digital-age nuances, each chapter is a step toward mastering meaningful interaction. Practical, insightful, and immensely applicable, it's an essential read for anyone looking to enhance their personal and professional communication skills. A transformative read that will change how you talk and connect with the world."

Mastering The Art of Communication Review from OnlineBookClub September 20204

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Review of Mastering The Art of Communication

Post by Harshitha G B » 31 Aug 2024, 06:38 (Online Book Club)

[Following is a volunteer review of "Mastering The Art of Communication" by Brent M. Jones.]

5 out of 5 stars
Brent M. Jones's book Mastering the Art of Communication focuses on the principles, importance, and suggestions for enhancing and understanding the power of communication.

The author began the narrative by discussing the principles of communication, its significance, and the attributes a communicator must have when speaking in front of a large audience. The author offered some insight into the influential role that communication plays in dealing with various situations, communicating with people, and making the most of possibilities. As a result of his recounting of his experience as an observer, I gained a greater understanding of how learning occurs through observation of the environment and how one can acquire information from it. He mentioned how it improved his ability to communicate effectively, and he emphasized how it helped him improve his ability to communicate efficiently.

Wordsmith, which offers insight into picking the ideal words to deliver a message, was one of the essential components that the author mentioned. Other vital parts were the varied degrees of expertise and experience that are required to connect with different departments and groups of individuals. Participating in this conversation allowed me to better understand the depth of words that have power in everyday life, as well as how one word may change the meaning of another term.

The author explored the topic of the topic of body language, social cues, tone of voice, reading the room before speaking, surrounding analysis, time, location, people category considerations, and the importance of the circumstance. These are all important aspects of effective communication. When it comes to sustaining stable and healthy relationships, transmitting one's intended ideas to others, and portraying a favorable picture of oneself, effective communication is necessary.

Overall, I rate this book 5 out of 5. The book's selected subjects, which are highly beneficial in the field of communication, are among its positive features. The book accurately conveyed the information, and the narration maintained the reader's interest throughout. The wording was straightforward yet profound, making it easier to understand and take in the full significance of the message. There were no parts of the book that disappointed me, as I found it to be truly enjoyable. The editing staff excelled in producing an error-free book, ensuring a delightful reading experience. This is a book that I would recommend to anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of communication and modifying it so that they can better represent themselves.

******
Mastering The Art of Communication
View or order from this website’s “Shop” Section

Mastering The Art of Communication - Only available in eBook at this time? →

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This book was published in August 2023 and has been the Author’s best-seller since then, becoming his #1 top-selling book selling several hundred books up to that point. About a month ago, Amazon said the book was not authentic and would no longer offer it. They believed that since some content was common on the internet, it did not deserve to be one of their books.

Of course, books about communication, body language, and so forth are on the Internet. If you Google communication or body language books, you will find several hundred options. Most of them have their own takes on the common components of communication.

The email telling me my book would no longer be available suggested “Plagiarism and lack of quality.” They didn’t use the word plagiarism but implied it—no example and the fact is that it is just not true.

Their first message said, “During a review, we found your book(s) contain content (text and/or images) that’s widely available on the web, which is considered “disappointing content” for our customers. This is a violation of Kindle Content Quality Guidelines. None of the several back-and-forth emails with them elicited any example or clarification of what they were talking about.

As of 2022, Amazon controls at least 40% of the US print book market, selling over 300 million copies annually. Some estimates predict that Amazon could control over 70% of the US printbook market by 2025. In the UK, Amazon controls at least 50% of the print book market, selling more than 106 million copies each year.

If Amazon gains 70% of the world book sales market, the question is how that would be possible if they expect every book to have no disappointing content. I believe my book is a valuable collection of lessons learned by listening to and participating with some very good speakers and communicators.

I am only guessing, but I think Amazon and several others use Ingram Books to print the books. Another source told me they believed that Ingram ran the print files through an AI program to ensure the content was not just pulled off the internet for the book. The idea that some subjects may have been overdone or lacked something new would imply that the publishing house wasn’t concerned about the quality of the content, so they must believe they are providing an important service.

Amazon notice to me originally suggested just that, but none of the several back-and-forth emails with them ever pointed out what they meant.

When Amazon made this decision, Kobo, Apple Books, and Barnes and Noble dropped the paperback and, later, the ebook. I had moved this book, “Mastering the Art of Communication” to these other sources to provide sellers beyond Amazon’s reach to get the paperback and had only been into that for a few weeks.

In August 2024, the book is still available in ebook form on Fable, Smashwords, and others. See those options at https://books2read.com/u/3GGxBa.

Also, I have added my bookstore back to this site. See the Dashboard above. This store features the ebook version. I am going to run the eBook version for Free through August. If you get the book, please review it and post the review on Fable or Smashwords or send it to me in the comments section on the dashboard.

[Following is a review submitted of "Mastering The Art of Communication”] The reviewer below concluded that it “provides a handbook for communication abilities based on the author’s life experience and research into optimal thought processes for mastering communication.”

Review of Mastering The Art of Communication

Post by P Sudam Patra » 27 Jul 2024, 03:21

P Sudam Patra

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Posts: 73

Joined: 04 Dec 2023, 02:39

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Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-p-sudam-patra.html

Latest Review: Mastering The Art of Communication by Brent M. Jones

”The author offers doable tasks and detailed instructions that are simple to implement daily. This pragmatic approach guarantees that the guidance is not just theoretical but also applicable. The book is a useful tool because it analyzes and covers a wide range of communication skills, from fundamental to innovative. There is always something new to learn, regardless of your level of experience or expertise.

The book makes communication principles more approachable and comprehensible by using examples from everyday life. This makes it easier for me to see how I might use these ideas in my own life.

About editing this book is professionally edited. I have not found any grammatical or typographical errors. It feels like someone is giving a speech in front of you, which I like the most. Moreover, it's fitting for this type of book because it's a self-help book and the author is writing it in an approachable and elucidative style. On the other hand, I will recommend this book to everyone who has poor communication abilities.

In summary, the book is dedicated to guiding effective verbal and nonverbal communication processes. It may be a required read for anyone wishing to improve their communication abilities.

After all, I would rate the book an outstanding 5 out of 5 stars because it has all the guidance and information I searched for to enhance my communication skills. The minor drawback that I discussed above has no impact on my rating.”

******
Mastering The Art of Communication
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on iTunes | on Smashwords

Listening to and Evaluating a Master Communicator →

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h.

Read this Book and Change Who You Are

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Talking and connecting are not the same. When you truly connect, your real message is understood and may be very different from what you had intended. Don’t just assume that if people seem to be listening to what you are verbally saying, they are hearing what your words intended them to hear. This distinction is crucial for effective communication.

This book will help you approach others as your “best self.” Responding to this claim, some may say they see no reason they wouldn’t come across as their best self. One answer to this question is that many of us are heavily influenced by others, which can make it difficult for us to understand our thoughts and feelings, guiding us to approach others as our “best self.” Responding to this claim, some may say they see no reason they wouldn’t come across as their best self. One answer to this question is that many of us are heavily influenced by others, which can cloud our self-perception and make it difficult to understand our true

The influence of others can lead to a lack of introspection, which is examining one's thoughts and feelings. One must take the time to reflect on one's experiences to gain insight into one's behavior.

The book can be a gateway to understanding yourself and becoming better.

Amazon Reviews of Mastering the Art of Communication: The Power of Precision in Language →

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Dan Diaz - Reviewed on Amazon

5.0 out of 5 stars - Mastering the Basics: Essential for Future Success

Reviewed in the United States on June 13, 2024

This book may seem basic at first glance, but don't let that fool you. This book lays down the fundamental building blocks for anyone serious about improving their communication skills. As someone who has delved into many self-help and professional development books, I can confidently say that the principles outlined here are not only foundational but absolutely crucial for long-term success.

What makes this book stand out is its focus on becoming an interesting speaker and communicator, not just on the techniques. It’s about transforming into someone who can convey ideas with clarity and precision. This approach ensures that readers are not just learning how to communicate but are evolving into compelling wordsmiths.

The basics are what matter most. By focusing on these core principles, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any communication challenge that comes your way in the future. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills in a meaningful and lasting way

Why I wrote Mastering the Art of Communication →

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Discover the power of influential communication and become a Wordsmith with this comprehensive guide to communication. This book teaches readers how to unlock the right words to make a lasting impression and establish meaningful connections. By the end of this book, readers will have the tools to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas with clarity and precision.

The benefits of reading this book include:
- Unlocking the power of influential communication to establish meaningful connections
- Discovering the right words to make a lasting impression
- Transforming your life with the correct language for any situation
This book provides readers with step-by-step instructions on becoming a Wordsmith, including industry-specific terminology, search engine optimization, demographic analysis, and situational analysis. It also includes tips and tricks for effective communication.

                                    Why I wrote this book.
In 1990, when I sat next to Stephen R. Covey, who was scheduled to be the second speaker of that day, with me speaking first in a small group, my expectations were high.
Looking back 33+ years, his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is still one of the most inspiring and impactful books ever written about how success comes from building internal character based on values and principles rather than just trying to change behavior.
As I wrote my recent book, "Mastering The Art of Communication: The Power of Precision in Language," many of my impressions and thoughts came to mind that day from listening to and experiencing Stephen Covey's talk from years ago.
My book aimed to focus on what added to the words of Covey's message. These include unlocking the power of influential communication, using the right words and language, and the importance and totality of a speaker's nonverbal communication.

  Become a Master Communicator & Make a Lasting Impression.

Watching a Master Communicator →

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Speaking just before Stephen R. Covey 30+ years ago, I watched a master of the art of communication demonstrate the power of precision in language and how important having charisma is when you are the speaker.

In my book, "Mastering the Art of Communication: The Power of Precision in Language," as well as in this video, the focus is on using the appropriate terminology in communication to make a meaningful difference to convey the desired goals, make wanted connections and draw attention to the challenges speakers and writers face as the terms available for communication expand and overlap in our business and personal settings.

Among many, Industry-specific Terminology, Search Engine Optimization, Demographic Analysis, and Situational Analysis are areas of focus where communication improves dramatically and where terminology is adequately considered.

Mastering The Art of Communication The Power of Precision in Language

Review of Mastering the Art of Communiction

Reviewed by rtl373

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Read with Precise Applications.0 out of 5 stars Great Read with Precise Applications

Reviewed in the United States on June 24, 2023

As an animator, I learned how to communicate better and create stronger professional relationships by reading this book! Reading it is a great way to stay ahead of the curve in a competitive industry.

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MSS Global Reader

5.0 out of 5 stars Communication is Everything, and This Book has it ALL!

Reviewed in the United States on September 4, 2023

Communication is indeed an art. This book is fantastic because it talks about how to be an excellent communicator by covering all aspects that impact communication. For example, it covers the impact of tone, nonverbal communication, using correct terminology and body language, etc.

Overall, a great book. Reading this book was a transformative experience for me, and I believe it can be for you, too. I highly recommend it. a lot, too. :)

I loved reading it and learned a lot.

Product Description - Mastering The Art Of Communication →

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This book will equip readers with the essential toolkit of becoming a Wordsmith. With the right words, readers will be able to communicate effectively and express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas with clarity and precision. Inside, readers will find a comprehensive guide to understanding communication, effective communication, and how to improve communication skills.

The benefits of reading this book include:
- Unlocking the power of influential communication to establish meaningful connections
- Discovering the right words to make a lasting impression
- Transforming your life with the right language

Inside, readers will find:
- Step-by-step instructions on how to become a Wordsmith
- Industry-specific terminology, search engine optimization, demographic analysis, and situational analysis
- Tips and tricks for effective communication

Don't miss your chance to become a Wordsmith and make a lasting impression

Author Brent M. Jones AD page for Mastering The Art of Communication