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.
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.
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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:
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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
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