Challenging Communication Tips for Better Project Communication | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

This video provides 5 tips for effectively navigating difficult conversations in project management.

Key Insights

• 🌱 Having a plan and focusing on desired outcomes is crucial for effective communication in project management.
• 🖐️ Timing plays a significant role in challenging conversations, and it's important to strike a balance between addressing issues promptly and being emotionally prepared.
• 🤪 Prioritizing the desired outcome over personal ego contributes to successful conversations.
• 😒 The use of pronouns can greatly influence the tone and dynamics of challenging communication.
• 🙇 Separating a person's behavior from their identity helps maintain respect and enables progress in difficult conversations.
• 🤩 Understanding the interests and outcomes that truly matter to each party is key to finding common ground in challenging communication.
• 🦮 The ebook "Challenging Communication for Project Managers" provides a comprehensive guide to managing difficult conversations, conflict resolution, negotiation, and the importance of coaching skills.

Transcript

project management can demand some difficult conversations so in this video I want to give you five tips to help you with challenging communication tip number one is to have a plan and to trust the process before you go into the conversation have a plan think about how you're going to conduct of that conversation and primarily think about outcomes ... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: How can having a plan help during a challenging conversation?

Having a plan allows you to consider your ideal outcome and acceptable outcomes, enabling you to design a communication process that drives towards the desired results. It helps ensure that the conversation stays on track and increases the chances of achieving a favorable outcome.

Q: What is the importance of timing in challenging conversations?

Timing is crucial in challenging conversations as delaying them can make matters worse. However, it's also essential to choose the right moment when both parties are emotionally prepared and receptive. Going into a conversation without proper preparation or when emotions are too high is not advisable.

Q: Why is prioritizing the outcome more important than being right?

The main focus of a challenging conversation should be to achieve the desired outcome, rather than proving oneself right. It is more effective to give the other person a win or credit for breakthrough ideas, as long as the overall outcome aligns with your goals. The emphasis should be on finding a resolution rather than personal pride.

Q: How can the power of pronouns impact challenging communication?

Pronouns like "I," "you," and "mine" can have both positive and negative effects. Using these pronouns responsibly and respectfully can empower both parties in the conversation. However, when used selfishly, accusatory, or disrespectfully, they can create a negative atmosphere and hinder productive communication.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Tip 1: Have a plan and consider your ideal outcome and acceptable outcomes for the conversation to design a process that drives towards the desired results.

• Tip 2: Time your challenging conversations appropriately, as delaying can make them more difficult but going in unprepared is also a mistake.

• Tip 3: Prioritize the desired outcome over being right, be willing to give the other person a win or credit for breakthrough ideas.

• Tip 4: Utilize the power of pronouns, using "I" and "you" respectfully can positively impact the conversation, while their misuse can create negative dynamics.

• Tip 5: Separate the person from their behavior, recognizing that one misstep doesn't define them as a whole and focusing on finding common interests and outcomes.