Great communication is like a master key when in comes to unlocking high performance in a team. It is not all you need but, if you assume the team is capable, it is arguably the most significant factor.
On the other side of the coin, poor communication in one of the most prevalent causes of tension in the workplace.
When working with leadership teams it is surprising, not to say disturbing, how challenging managers and leaders find some of the most basic statements about communication. For example, the thought that, as a leader, it is my responsibility to make sure the people I talk to have understood what I meant has led to awkward silences, embarrassment and even a touch of anger.
The saddest part of all this is that communication is not difficult. If I am clear about what needs to be communicated then all I need to do is to understand enough about the other person to say what I want to say in a way they will hear what I meant them to hear.
One tool we use in unlocking great communication in teams is DISC profiling. In this context, the profiles achieve two things. Firstly, they enable the people we are working with to become conscious of their own communication style. Secondly they form the basis of a conversation that enables people, sometimes for the first time, to see how others communicate. From there we can explore how great leaders and teams adapt their communication styles so that messages are received and understood in the most effective way.
Three simple steps to unlocking great communication in teams:
- understand your own communication style
- understand how others differ from you
- adapt accordingly.
If you would like to know more we have a half day workshop on this subject in Birmingham on 19th September. Your first two tickets will be discounted by £120 to just £50 + VAT and every participant will receive a free DISC profile. Book your tickets here.