8 tips for better communication in the workplace _ al
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(http://connect.al.com/user/MichellePowell/index.html) By Michelle@MondayMemos(http://connect.al.com/user/MichellePowell/posts.html)Follow on Twitter (https://twitter.com/promanner)
on March 02, 2015 at 10:57 AM, updated March 02, 2015 at 10:58 AM
I strongly believe that the best way to develop a good relationship with anyone begins
with the ability to have a good conversation. That is, after all, how we connect - through
communication.
It may seem like an obvious point, however, possessing good conversation skills comes
with conscious effort, practice, sincerity and the ability to pick up on the cues of others.
Too often, what goes wrong in a relationship - or a specific encounter - is based on what
comes out of our mouths...or doesn't get said at all!
Forming relationships cannot be accomplished without communication. Exactly how
one communicates, however, sets the tone for the relationship. In a business
environment where changing or ending a relationship can sometimes be harder than in
personal life, even more effort is required to make certain that attention is given to
proper form, language and tone.
Saying something without giving thought to how it may be received can be hazardous
(even to one's career) and can send a relationship spiraling downward.
Employee Appreciation Day falls on March 6th this year. But rather than talk about
how to say thank you with flowers, token speeches or team lunches, I'd rather share
how best to show appreciation - and more importantly, respect - on a daily basis.
Some of the best places to work are those where team members get along well.
Notwithstanding other factors, it comes as no surprise that these teams have proven to
be more productive with greater company loyalty and job satisfaction. Communication
across all levels is key; this, however, is not simply referring to routine information
dissemination.
Team members report a higher level of engagement and morale when daily interactions
(including small talk) are cordial and respectful, especially coming from leadership.
Some of the best lessons I've learned from those in leadership is their style of personal
communication. No matter the message, they have a way of engaging their audience
that leads to buy-in and cooperation when it really matters. Here are a few of those
lessons on conversation skills:
Listen more, talk less. This is your best weapon against misunderstandings and
potentially grave errors. No matter how busy you are, take the time to really listen and
you will avoid problems later. Others feel slighted when you do not give your full
attention, which can hinder the relationship moving forward. You may be met with a
lack of interest or cooperation when it is your turn to be heard. Poor listening can also
result in costly mistakes that impact the organization's reputation or bottom line.
Compliment others. Everyone appreciates knowing that they are performing well
and that someone noticed. And who doesn't like a compliment about choice of style.
Just be sure that in response to a compliment received that you do not ramble; a simple
"thank you" will suffice. Be mindful not to insult the compliment giver by rejecting the
compliment - essentially telling the person that he or she is lying or has poor judgment.
Yikes! Graciously accept the praise and move on. And note that one compliment does
not automatically deserve another. Share compliments freely and sincerely when they
are deserved.
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Inform ation W atch Auburn
Resist arguing. Every individual has a difference of opinion from others occasionally.
And sometimes the facts may be on your side. However, the way in which you express
your disagreement is crucial. You may (calmly) debate the accuracy of facts with the
intent of seeking to resolve an issue. Arguments, however, stem from emotional
responses which can quickly veer out of control and end up in personal attacks. Stating
your difference of opinion (or fact) in a composed mannerly way is more likely to be
heard than an impassioned response that makes you look out of control. Sometimes
and immediate response is not even necessary. Take the time to think clearly and
present your case, either in conversation or in writing.
Know when to apologize. We all make mistakes. But to cover it up is the greater sin.
And it is in poor taste, especially when confronted. Ladies, we have an easier time
apologizing than men do (statistically, not mere opinion). The key, however, is knowing
when an apology is needed. It should by no means be a part of your regular
communication style to apologize for insignificant things, which shows a lack of
confidence and undermines your position as a leader and effective communicator. And
remember, a sincere apology never comes with excuses or a justification.
Shun gossip. It is easy to get lured into office gossip, especially when there is fear in
uncertain times or someone leaves the company very unexpectedly. Then there is the
kind of gossip that is just personal slander. Both are to be avoided like the plague. A
not-so distant cousin to gossip is complaining, which usually invites gossip to the
conversation. Always present legitimate concerns in proper form with the proper
audience. Take time to consider who that may be as well as your method and timing of
communication for best results. The old "misery loves company" will only look bad on
you and can backfire if your audience and gossiping partner betrays your confidence.
Share the spotlight. Small talk is a part of work and social life. Be careful not to talk
too long about yourself. If your only goal is to have others impressed by you, then they
probably won't be! Show sincere interest in your conversion partner by asking
open-ended questions and attentively listening - with eyes and ears. And though it may
be tempting to jump into their story to share a time when you had a similar experience,
exercise restraint. Only share your account when it is really relevant, perhaps helpful in
problem-solving. The same goes for meetings; share the floor.
Connect with your audience. Don't use complex or unfamiliar terminology
unnecessarily and never without an explanation. You may be perceived as
show-boating or simply out of touch with your audience; talk on their level. This is
especially important when attending a social networking event where people are
gathered from multiple industries. Your use of acronyms and jargon may disconnect
you with your audience and will impede an otherwise valuable exchange.
Be diplomatic. Always use tactful language and a respectful tone. No matter the issue,
all things can and should be presented in the most respectful way. Avoid words that
sound like belittling or in some form a personal attack. Diplomacy is critical to
maintaining healthy work relationships and teamwork.
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