Category: Communication
Relationships at Work: Give What You Want to Get
Strong leadership is based on strong relationships. Have you considered your relationships lately? Here’s what to consider and how to improve them.
Conversational or Directional Leader?
Are you a Conversational Leader or a Directional Leader? I was watching a You Tube with two of my favorite authors and leaders, John Maxwell and Simon Sinek. Two brilliant minds having a conversation around leadership. Here is the link (1 Hour), worth the time. John Maxwell posed the question, Are you a Conversational Leader or Directional Leader? That made me think, what a great blog to research and discuss! Here are my findings. What are your thoughts? Conversational Leadership Conversational Leadership is simply a way forward that recognizes we are dealing with a new environment – a complex, changing world that requires different ways of seeing the world, thinking, and behaving. A single leader or small group does not have the ability to make sense of everything that is going on within an organization or the world. We need to be more conversational with those in our organization, who may see things differently or have meaningful work experiences or who have valuable information to share that would impact decisions, planning and strategies. A conversational leader wants others to talk and fully listens to their staff members, asks a question and genuinely cares about the answer. The challenge? This takes …
Energize Your Workplace with Empathy
by Marguerite Ham I have often been asked “What is the difference between empathy & sympathy?” Although they are similar, they do have different meanings, especially when it comes to the workplace. Empathy is a great quality to develop to improve your leadership skills by building meaningful relationships with those you lead. Empathy definition Webster Empathy is defined as the ability to understand the thoughts feelings or emotions of someone else. An example of empathy is feeling the same amount of excitement as a friend, when they tell you they’re getting married. Empathic: the psychological identification with the feelings, thoughts, or attitudes of others. Sympathy Definition Webster Sympathy is defined as feelings of pity and sorrow for someone else’s misfortune: an understanding between people; common feeling. In general, ‘sympathy’ is when you understand and care about the feelings of another person; ’empathy’ is when you share those feelings. Sympathy means together, at the same time; a shared feeling of community and understanding of those feelings. Empathy emphasizes the notion of projection. You have empathy for a person when you can imagine how they might feel based on what you know about that person and share those feelings. Empathy and Sympathy …
Crucial conversations with the C Style
Today, we wrap up the series of communication tips based on DISC styles with hints for strong C’s, the Mr. Spocks of the office. Even if you don’t need it right now, you can bookmark the first article, which contains links to the others, and keep it for reference when you do run into a thorny communication problem with another style. Was this helpful to you? Please comment or drop me a line if you liked it or want to see more on this topic. Feedback is always helpful! If you’re a high C, here’s how you relate… …to a high D: People with the D style like to get right to the point. They want things to happen quickly and don’t want to spend a lot of time dwelling on specifics. You’re more likely to be careful and systematic, taking the time to point out logical objections. You may find their blunt, forceful approach to be pushy or reckless. They may see your persistent questions as a barrier to progress. Strategies: Talk about big picture and bottom line rather than details Show them that you can move quickly when necessary Voice concerns, but avoid saying something “won’t work”. When …
Crucial Conversations with the S Style
If you’re a high S, here’s how you relate… …to a high D: People with the D style like to get right to the point. They’re willing to be straightforward and even blunt at times in the interest of making rapid process. You’re more likely to be tactful and soft-spoken, so they may dominate discussions with you. While they may not see this as a problem, you probably feel somewhat intimidated by them. At the same time, they may become frustrated by your unwillingness to speak up. Strategies: When trying to connect, avoid appearing too hesitant and indecisive. Remember that they appreciate a direct approach, so don’t be afraid to tell them what you’re thinking. Be prepared for their candor. When solving problems, avoid appearing hesitant or indecisive. Be willing to take a stronger stance. Speak up to make sure you have a voice in the solution. If things get tense, avoid giving in to their demands just to regain harmony. Know that hiding your true feelings could be more harmful than speaking candidly. Be aware that they will reciprocate when you challenge them, and they may be more aggressive. …to an I style: People with the Ii’ style are …