Effective Communication is Relational
This is the most fundamental principle that guides the rest of the rules of engagement. The premise here is that there are always different points of view, and conflict resolution, as well as any communication, depends on both sides’ attempt to acknowledge, understand and appreciate their opinions. In order to achieve success in this process, it is essential for the leader to have an idea of the employee’s background. That is why I plan to pay attention to where people come from and their cultural and social underpinnings. Of course, it will not be possible without cooperation from the other side; that is when the other rules come into play.
Effective Communication is Calm
Although emotions are seen as essential mediators in human communication, in business management, effective communication is not possible when the interaction overcomes rational reasoning. It is true for both sides: the manager and the employee. As Tyson (2006) states, “being calm, connecting with the individual, and being positive sets the stage for the end work of effective communication: a mutually beneficial and constructive exchange” (p. 9). It is extremely important to learn efficient ways to carry on a calm conversation with another person, and I believe it is the manager’s objective to be able to move the talk in the right direction.
Effective Communication is Positive
Techniques for constructive communication necessarily involve positive attitudes. Constructive influence presupposes, first of all, productive goals that take into account the interests of all participants in the communication process. It also contributes to the preservation and development of business and interpersonal relationships, and a positive emotional mood in the process of communication. Following this rule, I am going to develop the skills of constructive criticism, which presupposes a positive attitude towards the person who is being criticized, an attitude of equality and respect. I will focus on the fact that in the process of communication, it is very important to express approval, a positive assessment of the qualities or actions of a person.
Effective Communication is Mutually Beneficial
When two parties listen to each other, both win. Mutual understanding and respect become the basis for cooperation, interdependence, and loyalty. Effective communication skills allow opposites to coexist – this is the ultimate ability to understand a different perspective and find a compromise. In fact, there is no point in arguing about who is right and who is wrong; it only hurts the case. The goal of effective communication is to build and maintain communication, support, and working relationships that are mutually beneficial and therefore lasting. When the result of communication is beneficial not only to the leader but also to the employee themselves, a positive effect of building strong long-term relationships is achieved, which allows increasing the level of engagement of each employee.
Effective Communication is Constructive
Mutually beneficial communication still implies that it results in solutions desirable for the organization’s growth and development. As Tyson (2006) states, “the leader must focus on where to go next, discuss lessons learned, analyze possible implications, and set productive goals for the future” (p.9). Lack of communication skills leads to the fact that the leader has to continually redo the work, remind colleagues and subordinates what they should do, which becomes the reason for the weakening of the motivation of associates and colleagues, the lack of constructive feedback on the activities and proposals of the leader. In order to avoid this, it is necessary to constructively complete the communication, which implies the assurance that the parties have understood each other and will go further in the same direction.
Reference
Tyson, N. L. (2006). Five rules of engagement. Principal Leadership, 12, 8-9.