I often hear my clients say that they don't feel heard. They are frustrated with their colleagues, business partners and others in their life because they do not feel that anyone is listening. So we talk about communication.
What I find is that there is often a lot of beating around the bush when it comes to telling someone, especially someone you have a close business or personal relationship. We don't want to rock the boat or have a confrontation. So we often hint at what we want and suggest that things be done a certain way. I have had clients tell me that they sent their partner an article or book to get their point across. When their suggestion or hint isn't taken they become angry and frustrated and often blow up unexpectedly leaving the other person caught off guard.
4 steps to Clear communication
1. Ask the person involved to set up time for a meeting. When someone is busy or distracted and you try to talk to them they may not hear you.
2. Check your emotions at the door. Approaching someone with a chip on your shoulder will not help you to get heard.
3. At the meeting, tell the other person that you have not felt heard and ask them to really listen . Let them know that this is something that is important to you.
4. After you speak stop and listen to what the other person has to say with an open mind. Their view of the situation may be different from yours. Repeat back what you think you heard and clarify. Ask them to do the same with you
No comments:
Post a Comment