Mindset Reset

Laura Field

Communications Coach

Learn how effective communication can transform team dynamics and boost performance, using key principles and practical tips to enhance your interactions, handle difficult conversations, and avoid assumptions.

Effective Communication Strategies

Mindset Reset

10 mins 52 secs

Key learning objectives:

Identify ways to examine your reactions to emotional situations
Outline ways to navigate difficult discussions
Understand how to avoid making assumptions

Overview:

Discover how Gareth Southgate transformed team dynamics through effective communication in this essential step with Laura Field. Learn key principles like sharing your vision, engaging the media, and handling crises calmly. Laura Field also provides practical tips to enhance your interactions, navigate difficult conversations, and avoid making assumptions, helping you build trust and improve team morale. Recognise the impact of good communication on your work environment and equip yourself with tools to boost your communication skills.

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Summary

Why is focusing on good communication important?

Focusing on good communication pays dividends as it improves relationships and team morale. Poor communication leads to negative feelings like resentment, frustration, and confusion. By improving communication, you can avoid these negative emotions and create a more positive and productive environment.

How can you examine your reactions to emotional situations?

To examine your reactions, take the time to understand the intention behind messages and seek clarification. Reflect on your responses to different people and situations:

Identify who you listen to, who you make assumptions about, and who you interrupt or criticise
Recognise if you shrink around confident people or interpret brisk communication as hostile

What are some ways to navigate difficult discussions?

Breathe before speaking to bring your rational brain into play
Separate your emotions from the facts of the communication
Address the factual part of the communication with straightforward language
Propose solutions for improvement where appropriate

Can you provide an example of handling a difficult conversation?

Express the issue factually: "You missed several deadlines in a row over the last two months. What is preventing you from meeting them?"
Listen to their frustrations and identify distractions
Suggest a goal: "Focus on one piece of copy at a time and meet the deadline"
Set up a follow-up meeting to review progress

How can you avoid making assumptions in communication?

Avoid making assumptions by recognising that fear of negative judgement is instinctive. Remember that clients and senior leaders are interested in your expertise. Focus on the quality of the communication by:

Structuring your input logically
Speaking slowly and clearly
Keeping sentences short
Maintaining eye contact and using facial expressions and gestures

What should you do after a conversation that didn’t go well?

Assess your reactions and assumptions
Identify areas for improvement in your communication style
Use this self-assessment as a tool for improving your communication skills

The opinions and viewpoints expressed in this video are those of the creator and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organisations.

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Laura Field

Laura Field has over 25 years of experience in voice coaching, helping people communicate effectively in a messy world. With a background in drama, she understands the challenge of expressing thoughts and feelings in any situation, coaching clients worldwide. Her relaxed and practical approach gets to the core of effective speaking, guiding individuals and organisations through the twists and turns of life with grounded optimism and a friendly touch.

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