How to Modify Your Communication Style for the Team

You will find that by making just a few simple alterations to your communication style, you will draw out the best in those around you.

When you are working within a team environment, large or small, it is important to understand that reality is nine-tenths perception, especially when it comes to the art of communication. And while in a perfect world you might not be expected to modify your personal communication style in order to comfortably suit the team, it is often necessary. Peoples' perceptions of what is real matter most in communication, even more so than what is actually real. And since good communication requires a high level of self-awareness as well as a keen sense of others' strengths and communication styles, you will find that by making just a few simple alterations to your own communication style, you will draw out the best in those around you.

Things You'll Need

• Notebook
• Calendar
• Tape recorder

Instructions

1. 

   A team's work is a collaborative effort.

   Put the interest of the team first: When you are working on a team it is important to realize that the work you are doing is a collaborative effort. And while you might not always mesh perfectly with all of your team members, each and every one of you has something positive to bring to the table. So in the interest of the team, allow for people's differences. Challenge yourself to meet those differences half way.

2. 

   It's important to learn how to listen.

   Be an active listener: One of the best tools in communication is listening. Pay close attention to what other members of your team are saying. Try not to interrupt their thoughts, interjecting your own. Give each team member a fair chance to speak. Hear them out. Don't be afraid to ask questions, and in the spirit of better clarification, summarize aloud what it is that you heard them say.

3. 

   Crossing your arms can make you appear unapproachable.

   Be conscious of your body language: Much of our communication at work is unspoken. It is our body language that often speaks louder than our words. So be aware of what your body is saying to those around you, beginning with your posture. Your posture reflects your energy level, as well as your level of interest in what others are saying. Be sure to sit with your back straight and your shoulders squared; slouched posture communicates a negative attitude. Avoid looking at your watch. And above all things, avoid crossing your arms in front of you. It makes you appear closed off.

4. 

   Stay open to new thoughts and ideas.

   Be open-minded: Do not come to a meeting with your mind already made up. Whether or not you agree with the thoughts and ideas of others is not the point. It is important that you be willing to give each idea a chance, hear it out, because often times the ideas themselves might not have wings, but the brainstorming of that idea is what takes off. Good communication is all about recognizing, respecting and sharing relevant information with others in an open forum, and that means having to keep an open mind.

5. 

   Talk to your fellow team members when you need information rather than using email or text messages.

   If in doubt, pick up the phone: If at any time you are not clear on an objective, avoid sending an email or a text-message. Information can easily get lost in written communication. Pick up the phone or walk over to a team member's cubicle to get the information you need in person. Not only does it get you out of your cubicle, it also encourages teamwork.

6. 

   Be concise and avoid rambling so your point is clear.

   Speak slowly and clearly: In order to ensure that everyone is on the same page, avoid rambling on and stick to the matter at hand. Be concise with the information you are presenting, and take your time so that you are sure to get your point across.

7. 

   Adapt to the way others work.

   Flex to others' work styles: In the January 2008 issue of Ceridian Connection, Greg Cullen, manager of marketing strategy and research at Ceridian says, "Learning to flex to others' work styles ensures that there is a productive outcome in the interaction that you have. People can get hooked by their coworkers' personality style or words that are used. This may cause a reaction that can greatly hinder productivity. The only part of an interaction I can control is my half, so if I learn to flex to others' work styles, the interactions can improve. Flexing is a way of getting in sync with the other person by adjusting your behaviors to others' wants and needs."

References

• Ceredian Services
• Ki Empowerment Strategies
• Changing Minds Using Body Language

Resources

• Team Building Information