5 Ways To Make Your Communication More Productive
5 Ways To Make Your Communication More Productive
5 Ways To Make Your Communication More Productive
Have you ever gotten a voicemail where you couldn’t understand the name of the person leaving the message, or the phone number was rattled off so fast you had to listen multiple times just to try to catch each number? Or maybe it’s the drive-by at your cubicle or office with uninvited guests that ends up taking fifteen minutes out of your day.
Sometimes we inadvertently make our life a whole lot more difficult than it needs to be. It’s time to help others help you.
If you want to make your life easier and more productive, try these communication tips:
1. Leave a message. “Missed call” is a cryptic message. People don’t know what you need, and now they have to spend time wondering – were you just calling to say hi? Is there something specific you needed? Leave a message.
2. Leave a specific voicemail. This doesn’t mean you should leave a 3 minute voicemail. Simply leave your name and number (slowly), why you are calling, whether it’s urgent or not, and when you’ll be available (if they even need to call you back).
3. What’s your favorite form of communication? Do you prefer texts, emails, phone calls, or would you prefer people just stop by your office or cubicle if they need something? It’s not rude to tell people your preference. It’s productive and helpful.
4. Ask if now is a good time. Before you interrupt someone, ask if it’s a good time. It’s polite, you’ll frustrate others less, and most importantly, you’ll train them to do the same for you. Interruptions take between 5 and 10 minutes to re-engage in the task at hand. Do your best to minimize interruptions from and to others.
5. Be mindful. People communicate the way they do because they think it’s the right way to communicate. We don’t generally intentionally frustrate others, and sometimes our approach, while not ideal, is the best way we know how. Be mindful of others’ communication preferences and be patient.
If you want to see other tips on increasing productivity through communication, check out these previous posts on improving productivity with Drivers, Expressives, Amiables, and Analyticals.
Letting people know what you need and being specific are simply forms of assertive communication. It lets you spend more time on the things that are important to you.
I would love to hear your suggestions. How else can you increase productivity through effective communication? Join us on Facebook for a discussion or leave a comment here.
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The holiday season is upon us! It is a time of year to connect with the people you love, celebrate the year’s accomplishments, and maybe pick up a gift or two for the special people in your life. 🎁
If you are trying to figure out what to get that special someone, I’ve got your back. The perfect gift isn’t about price tags or flashy packaging; it’s about thoughtfulness.
And don’t forget to spread a little holiday cheer your way. Giving to yourself is also important - a new journal, a cozy blanket, or even just a day off can recharge your energy and refill your emotional tank. You cannot give what you do not have.
This season, let’s embrace giving and receiving as acts of connection, kindness, and care - for the people we love and ourselves. Check out this month’s blog for a few of my favorite gift ideas! Link is in my bio!!
It’s your last month of 2024! What one small change in your routine could boost your well-being this month? 💪
Here are a few ideas:
-Practice gratitude while brushing your teeth
-Start a multi-vitamin
-Take the stairs or park further away
-Take deep breaths while you wait in line
-Leave your phone in the other room at dinner or in conversations with friends and family
Other ideas? Leave them in the comments below! #mindfulmonday #resilience #reset #newyear #giftofresilience
Thanksgiving is almost here.
It’s a time to gather with friends, family, and loved ones, even those who are a little bit “extra”.
We all have that one friend or family member who’s a little annoying. Maybe they give unsolicited advice on your love life or insist that they know “the right way” to load the dishwasher.
Yet, for many, you are about to be joined by them for a gathering to celebrate a holiday where we focus on gratitude. How can you channel your inner gratitude when they’re testing your Zen? 🧘♀️
🙏 Thank them for the practice. 🙏
That’s right, you are getting free resilience therapy, which is a great opportunity to practice dealing with challenging behavior.
🙏 Focus on their “gifts”. 🙏
Is Aunt Linda a little too good at karaoke night? Thank her for giving you stories that can light up any dull conversation. Everyone has unique gifts. When you are focused on them, it’s easier to let go of judgment and frustration.
🙏 They’re teaching you boundaries. 🙏
“I love you, and I prefer not to talk about my career plans right now.” “I appreciate your input, and I’ll consider it. Want some pie?.” Thank them for all the valuable boundary-setting practice, and then change the subject to their favorite topic.
I’m grateful for you. Tag someone you’re grateful for!
Want to change your life for the better? Embrace gratitude. 🙏 Before you get out of bed in the morning and before you go to bed at night, think of 3 things you are grateful for. Here’s how:
1. Specific - The more specific you can be, the better.
2. Savor - Internalize the good feeling for 15-20 seconds.
3. Share - Tell someone what you are grateful for and why.
You’ll improve your mindset, motivation, and mental health. #mindfulmonday #gratitude #mindfulness #thankful #resilience
Fri-yay! 🩷
Ever compare yourself to others?
What if you used that energy and mental bandwidth to become 1% better tomorrow than you are today? Success is not an outcome. It’s growth. #growthmindset
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Anne shares practical strategies that can be applied both personally and professionally to improve relationships, navigate change, and triumph over adversity. And she’ll make you laugh while she does it. Anne is a two time TEDx speaker, and her work has been featured in numerous media outlets, including Harvard Business Review, Entrepreneur, Forbes, Fast Company and Inc. magazines, CNN, ESPN, and FOX Business. She is the best selling author of 3 books. Her newest, Mind Over Moment: Harness the Power of Resilience, is available on Amazon now.
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I try to be mindful of interrupting staff, but have always allowed an “open door” policy when they interrupt me, and sometimes that does hamper communication. I had never considered incorporating #4 into my communication style, but I will now. Thank you.
Hi Patrina,
Thanks for the comment! I think it’s the difference between an open door and a “cracked” door, as one of my clients taught me. There’s a difference between being available literally any time, and people knowing that they they are able to schedule a time to chat with you when needed and that your’re “available”. Thanks!