It is true - all we do, all day long is talk with one another. And talking all day long is not only a necessity, it is the vehicle by which we get things done. Every organization is a network of conversations. We use conversations to coordinate action, give and get feedback, clarify requests, etc. Without conversations, we wouldn't be in business.
And let's not limit our view of conversations to just talk. We have conversations through e-mail, text messaging, pictures, chance hallway meetings, and myriad other venues. Even non-conversation communicates something. Several research studies claim that 80% of communication is non-verbal.
Think about the network of conversations--from the end user (customer) to the top person at an organization. Speaking and listening is not trivial, and we owe it to ourselves to pay close attention to the quality of our conversations. As leaders, it is our responsibility to ensure that our message is received, understood, and that the receiver has a predisposition to do something that may include listening, taking our message to others, or simply responding to us.
If all we do is talk, and since all we are is a network of conversations, we owe it to ourselves to pay attention to our words, our intentions, and our expected outcomes. Without such attention we may (and probably often already get) some unintended consequences that are costly.
If you want to learn more about how to be more skillful in workplace conversation, email me: Micki@BlueMesaGroup.com.
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