EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION AT WORK
Effective communication skills are fundamental to success in many aspects of life. Many jobs require strong communication skills and socially people with improved communication skills usually have better interpersonal relationships.
Effective communication is a key interpersonal skill and by learning how we can improve our communication has many benefits.
So for effective communication, we need to learn to work with different styles.
• First, figure out what behavioral pattern best describes your situation at work, at home, etc.
• Next, learn to “read” others to determine their behavioral styles
• Finally, adapt your style, look to make consensus or agreement and have them “joint your cause”…
Identifying the Four Styles
− These individuals like immediate action, make quick decisions, and take authority. They are typically someone who wants to shape the environment.
− These individuals generate enthusiasm, are optimists, like to connect with people on a social level, and enjoy participating in groups.
− These individuals are loyal, have patience, and are cooperative. They perform in a consistent manner, are calm, and create a stable, harmonious work environment.
− These individuals are detailed oriented and tend to think analytically. They analyze performance critically, check for accuracy, and use systematic approach.
“Adapting” to the Styles of Others
» After you can identify a person‘s individual style, you face the most difficult challenge – adapting to their personality!!!
» In order to “ Adapt“ properly you must:
− Know your stengths and weknesses…
− Identify the threats and opportunities…
− Concentrate and focus on bridging the gaps…
− Keep an open mind and use language the other style will respect and listen to…
“Adapting” —— How to Talk to the Styles
− Get straight to business
− Don‘t waste time
− Stress efficiency
− Present an air of authority
− Omit unnecessary detail
− Ask direct question
− Answer questions directly
− Be well-organized
− Give options, not opinions
− Give the “Big Picture“
− Show the bottom line
− Be stimulating
− Be enthusiastic
− Be optimistic
− Give testimonials
− Ask for their ideas and opinions
− Keep the atmosphere warm and friendly
− Don‘t dwell on the details
− Create a warm, friendly climate
− Give many reassurances
− Be sincere
− Give time to adjust
− Show how plans will impact people
− Stress security aspects
− Recognize their work ethic
− Show appreciation
− Be sensitive to feeling
− Be prpared
− Be thorouth
− Be accurate
− Provide evidence
− Show facts and statistics
− Present both pros and cons
− Use charts and graphs
− Give time for thought
− Be calm