January 6, 2010

Connected Communication

Posted by Matthew Dent under Communication, Leadership | Tags: , , |
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Becoming an effective leader starts with communicating at a higher level. Too often we hear about supervisors being horrible communicators and we need to reverse this trend. In doing so, we must discuss the basic fundamental skills of communication. Although elementary, having the proper foundation will benefit and enhance your relationship with your employees. The five terms for becoming connected are: think, purpose, point, benefits, and questions.

One of the first lessons we learn as children is to think first and then speak. This is a very basic concept however we tend to get caught up in our emotions and overreact without thinking first. Looking to understand the purpose of the message is why it is important to listen and more importantly actively listen. Keeping a conversation short and sweet will make it easy to get your point across while not getting off topic. While connecting we need to translate our words into a message that benefits our listeners. Staying active in the conversation will show interest so make sure to ask questions!

CRUX: The responsibilities of connected leaders are: listen more, care more, and commit to connecting more with people.

                  “Communication is the real work of leadership” – Nitin Nohria

 

January 5, 2010

Become an Active Listener

Posted by Matthew Dent under Communication | Tags: , , |
[8] Comments 

 How many of us have found ourselves in a conversation and yet we don’t even know what that other person is saying?  You have zoned out and started thinking about  lunch or what you are doing this weekend and only to key back in when you hear something that catches your attention. Or even better yet, a question comes to mind so you do everything in your power to retain your thought and in doing so you are actually trying not to listen in order to remember your question.  Why are we taught to read, write, & speak but not to listen?  Without effectively listening, communication begins to vanish! 

The truth is, this is more common than not.  When it comes to being more effective communicators I believe we can all improve our listening skills. Here are 6 steps to become a more active listener:

1)      Distraction- Consider your location and individuals around when you are listening. Are you distracted?  A busy coffee shop may not be the most effective place for you to meet for a meeting.  If you are distracted easily, recognize this and consider a place where you can stay focused.

2)      Eye Contact- Let the speaker know you are listening and you do this by giving feed back with your eyes. You are now acknowledging the speaker and the message are of importance.

3)      Timing- Too often we are consumed with a project or focused on a task and we can’t be there to listen. Rather than adopting partial listening, politely let them know this isn’t a good time. Make yourself available, but chose the time

4)      Feelings v. Content- There are two levels which conversations operate: issue based and emotional based.  By reading between these two issues you will know if it is right to move forward with a question or statement. If not, wait and address it at a more appropriate time.

5)      Cues- Using both verbal and non-verbal cues are key letting the speaker know you are focused. Being engaged and asking questions and giving feed back will not only help you stay focused but allows you to guide the conversation and in doing so you are keeping control.

6)      Summarize- Come to an agreement on the conversation and layout the next steps. By taking action after the conversation you are demonstrating that you care and you were listening.

CRUX: Listening is not easy! Do the little things that will help you stay focused and engage in the conversation.

  “The ear of the leader must ring with the voices of the people.” — Woodrow Wilson

 

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