Expanding Your Communication Skill Set

 

Background: 

You and a colleague are involved in a heated discussion about a complicated work process. Neither of you can agree on the best way forward.

Question

:

What communication strategies can help you resolve this difficult situation?

• Relax and listen carefully to what your colleague is saying

• Consider the situation from your colleague’s perspective

• Use neutral and impersonal language to de-escalate the situation

• Prepare to negotiate to find a mutually agreeable solution

Background

: 

Your manager has invited you to speak at an event to explain a new initiative your team is undertaking.

Question

:

What methods can you use to consider your audience while communicating with them?

• Adjust your style to your audience

• Be aware of the purpose of your communication

• Provide your audience with opportunities to communicate with you

• Identify your audience in advance

Background

: 

One of your short-term goals is to practice using different styles of communication at work.

Question

:

What communication styles should you use to get the best results?

• Analytical communication to help you work with data and metrics

• Expressive communication to help you brainstorm new, innovative solutions

• Social communication to help you connect with others personally

• Functional communication to help you set, execute, and maintain plans

Background

: 

To communicate effectively at work, it’s important to choose the most appropriate format for your message.

Question

:

Match each workplace situation to the most suitable communication format.

Formal format - 

Communicating a precise, official strategy to all employees in a company  -  Providing one-on-one feedback to a specific employee

Semi-formal format - Communicating an important deadline to your project team  -  Explaining a new operational procedure to your team

Informal format - Getting to know a new colleague better  -  Sending a time-sensitive message that requires an urgent response