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 COMMUNICATION
WITH YOUR TEAM MEMBERS
(This is an article from the coaching tips book -“Reach
For The Stars”. For more information contact Angela
Lund of S.T.A.R.S. Leadership Training www.starsleadershiptraining.com)
Communication
is active not passive.Ý You must listen, not just hear what
is being said. You must pay close attention, interpret,
and then remember. On most occasions we are so busy accomplishing
the many tasks of our team that we forget the importance
of communication.Ý However, establishing good communication
channels will simplify many issues within the team and allow
for a more stable inviting atmosphere where each participant
feels important.Ý Here are some guidelines to follow when
developing communication within your team.
Hearing Is Not Listening
-
Get
inside their thoughts to see their point of view
-
Be
clear on what is being communicated so you do not confuse
that with what you might want to hear.
-
Make
Eye Contact
-
Nod
responsively
-
Ask
questions
-
Paraphrase
ìSo what youíre saying isÖî
-
Donít
interrupt or distract
Listen To The Grapevine
Rumors
emerge because of situations people may not understand,
on issues that may or may not seem important, and usually
under conditions that cause anxiety.Ý It may be the only
way the team feels they can bring up an awkward situation.Ý
Hoping it will eventually get back to you.Ý When this happensÖ
-
Hold
a meeting to inquire/clarifyÝ
-
Accept
that this happens in all teams
-
Address
the rumor and then dispose of it as rumors are distracting.
-
Pay
attention to what the rumor is saying.Ý
Remember, What
You DO is MORE Important Than What You Say
Role
model ethical behavior and act the way you would want your
team to act.
Choose The Correct Communication Channel for Each Situation
Each
situation may require a certain form of communication channel.Ý
Make sure to choose wisely for effectiveness.
-
Face
to Face ñ best for effectiveness as it allows for your
team to get multiple clues with body language and voice
inflections.
-
Phone
ñ next best when they can hear your voice.
-
Letter
ñ personalized or group.Ý Went through the effort.Ý Shows
more emotion.
-
Email
ñ least effective.Ý Best for simple information.Ý Not
good for relaying emotion.
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