Show Appreciation
Prior to getting into the meat of your conversation, be sure to express your thanks for the other individual’s time. Time is an extremely precious resource, and it important to be respectful and considerate of that. Also, complement or recognize any positive contribution they are making. Appreciation and praise can go a long way towards building good rapport.
Prior to getting into the meat of your conversation, be sure to express your thanks for the other individual’s time. Time is an extremely precious resource, and it important to be respectful and considerate of that. Also, complement or recognize any positive contribution they are making. Appreciation and praise can go a long way towards building good rapport.
Connect
Connect on a personal level if possible. Look for places
where interests overlap if any exist. Even in a professional situation, there
may be some personal interests in common, hobbies, sports, children, etc. Take
care to avoid such controversial topics as political leanings or religious
beliefs. A real sense of connection makes a difference in the tone and outcome
of the current conversation and most likely future communications as well.
Stay positive
Maintaining a positive attitude is crucial to
productive communications. Be constructive rather than negative or complaining. People shut down, effectively ending any real communication when they feel attacked or criticized. Be encouraging and kind even when expressing concerns or displeasure.
productive communications. Be constructive rather than negative or complaining. People shut down, effectively ending any real communication when they feel attacked or criticized. Be encouraging and kind even when expressing concerns or displeasure.
Watch tone
While it’s sometimes necessary to be assertive in order to
make your point, don’t be aggressive. There is a fine line between the two. Try
not to cross it. An adversarial tone is not in any way productive. Be confident
and direct, while still adopting a calm, cooperative tone.
Focus on the result
It’s important to figure out what result you are after
before you start the conversation. Knowing your objective helps you to direct
the conversation and to remain on point. What are you hoping to accomplish? Are
you trying to give help, resolve a conflict, or collaborate on a project or
issue? Are you seeking advice or trying to influence behavior? Your desired
outcome helps to determine the flow of communication.
Listen
Eye contact is crucial. Be polite and don’t interrupt. No
one likes being interrupted and though it’s natural to want to rush in to make
your point, it’s very disrespectful of the other person’s thoughts. Try to
understand the other person’s perspective. Maintain an open mind. Learning how
to value different viewpoints can be an important communication tool.
Notice non-verbal cues
Watch body language. Lack of eye contact, distraction, or
fidgeting are often signs of restlessness or impatience. Yawning or sighing are
usually signs of mental or physical fatigue. When you notice these types of
non-verbal signals, it’s a sign that this conversation is not going to be a
productive one. Quickly wrap up the conversation, postpone the conversation, or
inquire about the discomfort if your relationship allows.
Request feedback
Confirm that you have a mutual understanding of what’s being
communicated. We often think that we’ve reached a resolution and come to an
understanding, only to find out that we have completely misunderstood the other
person’s thoughts. Ask for input and feedback. This not only confirms that you
have successfully communicated; it also makes the other person feel that they
have been heard and understood.
Follow-up
Be clear about what actions will be taken and establish
accountability. Confirm deadlines, responsibility, and expectations. If
relevant, document any agreements in writing. A clear understanding of what is
supposed to happen next can help avoid a conflict later on.
Always try to end your communication in a friendly manner.
Reiterate your thanks and try to leave the other individual feeling understood
and valued. Productive communication involves respect, consideration,
awareness, and clarity. It is possible to be both direct and kind and still get
the results you want.
With thanks to:
lifehack
With thanks to:
lifehack
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