The confetti has settled, and the champagne bubbles have fizzled. It’s back to the grindstone and time to get down to the business of 2013 and achieving those resolutions. What better topic to resolve to improve than your communications! So without further ado, here are our 10 Communication Resolutions for 2013.
{ Express Appreciation } Before diving into a conversation, make a point of thanking the other person for their time. Also, compliment or recognize any positive contributions they are making. Appreciation and praise can go a long way towards building relationships.
{ Connect } Connect on a personal level. Even in a professional situation, there may be some personal interests in common: hobbies, sports, children, etc. A real sense of connection makes a difference in the tone and outcome of the current conversation and most likely future communications too.
{ Keep it Real } In a world of e-mail and smart phones, it can become easy to hide behind technology. Direct communication can provide both parties the opportunity to explain themselves and seek immediate clarification.
{ Solicit Feedback } Ask for input and feedback to confirm you have a mutual understanding of what has been communicated. This has a dual effect as it makes the other person feel that they have been heard and understood.
{ Focus on the Result } What are you hoping to accomplish? It’s important to figure out what result you are after before you start the conversation. That way, you can direct the conversation and remain on point. And, your desired outcome helps you to determine the flow of conversation.
{ Follow-up } Be clear about what actions will be taken and establish accountability. Always try to end your communication in a friendly manner and reiterate your thanks. Productive communication involves respect, consideration, awareness and clarity.
{ Stay Positive } Maintaining a positive attitude is critical to productive communications. Remain constructive rather than negative when expressing concerns.
{ Watch Tone } There’s a difference between being assertive and being aggressive. You can be confident and direct while having a calm and cooperative tone.
{ Be Aware of Non-Verbal Cue } Watch body language. Lack of eye contact, distractions, sighing, or fidgeting are signs of restlessness or impatience. When you notice these signals, it’s a sign that the conversation is not going to be as productive as it could be.
{ Listen & Learn } Maintaining a good level of communication isn’t always easy, and you need to be prepared to learn from your mistakes. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or to seek out the assistance of a communications coach.
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