workplace competencies
Pause for thought “The single biggest problem with communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”
George Bernard Shaw
consideration? Asking questions of others and checking in for understanding can be a great way to clarify this and pick up any misunderstanding or apprehension at an early stage. On many occasions this can save time in the long run. l Do you display positive body language? As the saying goes, it is not always about what you say, but also how you say it. What does your body language say about you? Try to think about portraying positive body language and see if this promotes more open communication.
Persuades and gains commitment l How often do you stop to think about the method of the communication you use? Whatever we think about email, we all know that sometimes it is the most appropriate way to get information across. Is it always the way though? Are there some opportunities to make time to talk to people? What difference would and could that make? Can you sometimes make time for the personal touch? It is not always appropriate; however, do try to vary this and use all channels available to you and think about the effect this can have on the person receiving your message. l Do you always develop reasoned views and arguments to your point of view? Different views and challenge can often be handled in a much more effective way when people have thought through their rationale and have evidence or examples to back this up. l How do you handle disagreement or conflict? Are you able to create positive dialogue by asking questions and listening to seek clarification and move to solutions? It is valuable to think about a challenging conversation you have had and to ask yourself why. What could you have done differently? Effective communication can be helped be ensuring various viewpoints have been aired and then moved to decisions and action.
Top tips What can I do to further enhance my skills in this area?
Championing effective and open communication can demonstrate
advanced personal skills. Top tips to consider for further personal development could be to explore: l building a team/department communication plan or strategy l creating a simple and effective communication processes – ‘up, down and across’ l creating and supporting opportunities and channels for feedback l coaching individuals where possible (by using open questions: what, where, when, why, how) to promote a two-way conversation rather than a ‘tell’ culture l challenging ineffective communication, and being open to challenge l promoting focused methods of communication, being seen as a role model in this area.
Pitfalls What behaviours can detract from our performance in this area?
It is also useful when evaluating personal skills to be aware of our own actions and how these could demonstrate a need for personal development, such as: l lacking confidence when presenting views l not asking questions or listening to others – just using the ‘tell’ style to communication l unwilling to take on board the views/ concerns of others l taking on a long-winded approach to communication l over-complicating messages l ignoring opportunities to improve communication l over-using email l not valuing a face-to-face approach when possible and available.
PP Further resources L
Listed below are the titles of publications that can make for great reading if you want to further your knowledge, techniques and skills.
l How to win friends and influence people, Dale Carnegie l Coaching for performance, John Whitmore l Difficult conversations: how to discuss what matters the most, Patton, Stone and Heen.
Next month: Ros focuses on change and innovation.
PayrollProfessional 47
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