Let's Talk ... Communication Skills!

March, 2008

			OPENING THOUGHT    "Communication is consistently identified as the greatest challenge in every organization that I work with - the quality, frequency and timeliness all play a role in the effectiveness."    Kid's Help Phone As I mentioned last month, throughout 2008, NRL Group Incorporated will be undertaking one initiative each month that will help to make the world a better place for a child, a family or a community in need. I am proud to say that my son has taken up the challenge this month! Find out more... This month - 5 Tangible Tips for Effective Communication: Be aware of your body language. The words that you choose and the messages that you send through eye contact, gestures and facial expressions need to be consistent with each other. Conflict is normal and to be expected in most relationships at some point - whether personal or professional. Failing to address the conflict however, does not make it go away - actually it generally just gets worse. Tackle the issues; be objective and stick to the facts; avoid language that places blame and try to keep your emotions out of it as much as you can. Feedback is a gift that you have to give or to receive. It is also the food that helps you or someone else to grow and improve. When delivered with care and respect, feedback is a valuable and welcome tool to personal growth. Remember to follow the DESC Model when offering corrective feedback to another person. Language is the tool that we use to communicate much of the message. Tailor your language to your listener. Consider their background, level of experience and any language or physical barriers that they may have. In the same way that you may turn up your volume when you speak to an elderly person, slow down the pace of your conversation when speaking to someone who is operating in their non-primary language. This is respectful communication and increases the likelihood that the other person will truly understand your message. Ultimately, the best communicators are typically really good listeners. They believe that what other people have to say is of value and are willing to give them a chance. Remember - you have two ears and one mouth, so listen twice as much as you speak!   - Janet Stewart-Lussier   President, Canadian Association of Professional Speakers - Ottawa Chapter   Author of "Let's Talk Teambuilding - 10 Strategies for Becoming a High Performance Team Member"

Tell me more about the Let's Talk Teambuilding Communication Workshops   Check out the Let's Talk Teambuilding Tip Sheets

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