We were lucky to catch up with Demetrius (Deacon) Johnson recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Demetrius (Deacon), thanks for sitting with us today to chat about topics that are relevant to so many. One of those topics is communication skills, because we live in an age where our ability to communicate effectively can be like a superpower. Can you share how you developed your ability to communicate well?
I talked less; I observed and listened more. I became less impressed by the sound of my voice, and more passionate about connecting with people and “meeting” them where they are.
To do this, I genuinely have to be interested in what matters to people (their opinions, likes, dislikes, fears, motivations, and then some). Essentially, it’s wanting to know their stories, asking questions for clarity and understanding (if I’m in a position to do so) then using it to find authentic connections.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a communicator who uses stories and music as a tool to encourage people. The most exciting thing about it is that I get to share my life experiences (and others) that highlight the hope I have in Jesus. However, this “ain’t” your ordinary evangelistic programming (lol).
As I mentioned earlier we share life stories with folks, and we believe everyone has a sound track to it. That being said, we use popular songs (that aren’t derogatory or vulgar) to help tell these stories. The songs we sing range from virtually every genre, as long as it helps tell the story. We like to think of the event as our version of testimony service and Jesus using parables to connect with people.
The Soap Box takes place a few times a year in the greater Houston area, so keep a look out on social media for dates, times, and location.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
My character, integrity, and objectiveness are the three most impactful qualities I’ve guarded throughout this process. My character being important because it’s been a driving force on whether or not people want to work with me, integrity to determine if they want to continue working with me, and objectiveness to gauge my professionalism.
If there’s anything I can share with people on how to nurture these qualities, it would be to process every meaningful decision thoughtfully to determine if it will cause you to “step outside” of your character, practice doing the right thing consistently even if it’s not popular, and search, find, and speak with facts. If you don’t have the facts, present your thoughts with a disclaimer.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
This is an opportunity for me to brag on my wife (Sarahdia)! She has been my greatest champion, observer, and fan for the longest. It is absolutely safe to say that none of this would exist had it not been for the push she gave years ago when she challenged me to audition for the American Idol. It was at that moment I started to see something in myself that she obviously did.
Prior to me auditioning, I lacked the confidence to showcase my singing beyond church. However, my wife (who doesn’t sing) always believed I should do more with my talent. Reluctantly I did it, and haven’t looked back since. That is why it’s important to surround yourself with the right kind of people. Individuals who are willing to challenge you, tell you the truth, and encourage you. One of mine just happens to be my wife.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: deaconofsoul; onthesoapbox
- Facebook: deaconofsoul; thesoapboxevent
- Twitter: deaconofsoul; thesoapboxevent
