Minimizing Communication Breakdowns: Meeting in the Middle
Originally recorded on Wednesday, May 26 as part of our Leadership Conference
Everyone has their own style of communication, and, as leaders, we need to understand our way of communicating is not the only way. Team members often feel they have to navigate ways to fit into a leader’s preferred form of communication. But it is ultimately up to us to listen, show empathy and create an environment where everyone is heard. Let’s talk about the variety of ways communication breaks down and how to understand each other and meet in the middle.
Duration: 30 minutes
Reading recommendations from our live session:
Just Listen by Mark Goulston
12 Rules for Life by Jordan Peterson
Monday Morning Leadership by David Cottrell
Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John Maxwell
HBR 10 Top Reads on Communication
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Russell Mind
Dare to Lead by Brene Brown
Find middle ground
The secret to successful communication is making sure both parties are open to understanding the other’s side. Clarity and communication with intent to understand will help reach a middle ground.
Acknowledge differences in communication style
Communication skills differ from person to person, and it can take time to understand each person’s uniqueness. Learning to listen, checking your tone and communicating face to face when possible can all assist in effectively communicating.
Cindy Woods,
Vice President, Chief Learning Officer, USLI University
John Colaprete,
Vice President, Internal Auditor, Surplus Lines Filings Team Leader
