High-Flying Communication SKills

In a professional environment, clear, confident communication can literally mean the difference between crushing it or crashing it. Let’s dive into why mastering communication is essential to your career and how you can sharpen this skill just like any other.

Why Communication Matters (More Than You Think)
Communication isn't just talking—it’s about making sure your message lands safely with the person you're working with. Whether it’s during rehearsals, while rigging up for a wire stunt, or simply coordinating timing with your team, clear communication can save time, prevent mistakes, and keep you safe.

Think of it this way: Your physical skills make you a great stunt performer, but your communication skills make you a reliable team member—and in this industry, reputation is everything.

When Communication Goes Wrong...
Let’s face it, we’ve all seen what happens when things get lost in translation. Poor communication can create a whole slew of problems, from misunderstandings to straight-up accidents. Here’s what can happen when you don’t get it right:

• Misunderstandings on Set: Confusion can result in missed cues, unsafe stunts, or even tension among team members.
• Decreased Productivity: If people aren’t sure what’s expected of them, progress stalls. You’ll end up wasting time going over things that could’ve been nailed on the first take.
• Increased Anxiety: When communication is unclear, it can cause stress and make everyone second-guess themselves—a definite no-go for a high-stakes environment like a stunt set.
• Missed Opportunities: If you’re not speaking up or aren’t clear about your needs, you could miss out on key moments to show off your talent or make valuable connections.

5 Tips for Better Communication
So, how do you level up your communication game? It’s easier than you think! Here are some key strategies that can help you own the conversation and make sure your message lands as smoothly as your next high fall:

1. Keep it Short and Sharp
When you're hanging off a wire, no one has time for long explanations. Be direct. Be clear. Know what you need to say, and get it across without fluff. The fewer words, the better!
Example:

• ❌ Wrong: "I was wondering if you think maybe we should go over that rigging again because I feel like something’s off, but it might be fine."
• ✅ Right: "Let’s double-check the rigging for safety."

2. Be Assertive, Not Aggressive
You want to make sure your voice is heard without stepping on anyone's toes. Don’t be afraid to speak up—especially about safety—but do it with confidence and respect. Being polite but firm ensures you’re taken seriously.
Example:

• ❌ Wrong: "I don’t want to bother you, but can you maybe check my harness again?"
• ✅ Right: "Can we double-check my harness? I want to be sure it’s secure."

3. Listen As Much As You Talk
Communication isn’t just about what you say—it’s about hearing others, too. Make sure you're really listening when someone gives feedback or instructions. It’s the key to building trust and ensuring the whole team is on the same page.
Example:

• Stunt Coordinator: "We need to adjust the timing for this"
• You: "Got it. Let’s run through the sequence again with the new timing."

4. Use ‘I’ Statements
When you need to express your feelings or opinions, try using "I" statements instead of accusing someone. It takes the edge off and helps avoid unnecessary conflicts.
Example:

• ❌ Wrong: "You never listen to my ideas!"
• ✅ Right: "I feel like my ideas aren’t being considered. Can we talk through them?"

5. Stand Your Ground (But Respectfully)
Sometimes you’ll need to stick to your guns, especially when it comes to your safety. It’s totally okay to disagree, as long as you do it in a way that is respectful and calm.
Example:

• Them: "You don’t need that, trust me."
• You: "I appreciate the advice, but I feel more comfortable with it."

The Bottom Line? Communication is Key to Safety and Success!
You wouldn’t dream of performing a stunt without training, right? So don’t neglect the power of strong communication either. It’s a skill that’ll keep you safe, make you a team player, and help you build those relationships that are critical to a long and successful career.

Practice these communication tips like you would any stunt technique, and soon you’ll be just as confident in your words as you are in your moves.
Now, get out there and keep flying high—not just in the air but in every conversation you have on set.