As a task-oriented direct communicator, an area that I have had to grow in over the past few years is connecting when communicating. My natural wiring is to just get straight to the point, get to the facts, and get working. While this trait made me an excellent worker, it was a challenge for my growth in leadership that I have had to be intentional in improving.
Connection is so important in both leadership and parenting. You have to find different ways to connect with different people, because everyone has a different personality and communication style.
A great way to connect with your team, your children, or really anyone you want to have better communication with is through the use of stories. When you share your personal experiences, the receivers are able to better understand your reasoning and can better connect with you on a more personal level.
When parenting, instead of saying things like “Don’t take drugs” to your child, if you tell a story of someone you know that took drugs and then had problems, it is so much easier for them to connect to your reasoning.
When you connect and give a WHY behind your directions, your communication will be so much more effective.
Want to learn more? I have a few spots available for individual or team coaching. Let’s connect!