Line Managers - Are you having good conversations with your team?
When was the last time you had a really great conversation? One where there’s a back and forth with different opinions and points of view. One that changed actions. Now, as a line manager, ask yourself when was the last time you had a true conversation with your team members?
Your team members have lives, worries and external pressures that may have an impact on their work, so the question is, how do line managers build relationships through conversation? In this blog, we are reviewing exactly that. What makes a good conversation, and how can line managers improve their communication skills to foster better relationships?
If you Google the art of conversation you’ll get hundreds of results; from YouTube videos and self-help guides, to audio books and articles. But the essence of a good conversation boils down to four key points: two-way exchange, validation of views, depth without oversharing, clarity and purpose. Let’s look at those individually:
- A Two-Way Exchange is a meaningful conversation between two people. One person shouldn’t be hijacking the dialogue. A conversation is one in which both parties feel heard and valued.
- Validation of views. In today’s often fractured political and socio-economic climate, acknowledging differing viewpoints fosters an environment of openness and trust. Line managers should practice active listening, ensuring that their team members feel their contributions are significant. Check out a previous blog we wrote on “Are you really listening?” here.
- Depth without oversharing. This is a tricky one. While it’s essential to connect on a deeper level, it’s equally important to maintain professional boundaries. Good conversations involve sharing relevant personal insights without delving into overly personal territory\\
- And finally, a good conversation should have both clarity and purpose. Line Managers should guide conversations towards specific goals, whether it's problem-solving or providing feedback.
Enhance Your Communication Skills
- Practice Active Listening: Focus on what others are saying without planning your response. This shows genuine interest and respect.
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage dialogue by prompting others to share their thoughts in more detail. This invites richer conversations.
- Be Mindful of Body Language: Non-verbal cues can greatly affect how messages are received. Maintain eye contact and open body language to promote a welcoming atmosphere.
- Reflect and Summarise: After a discussion, summarise key points to ensure mutual understanding. This reinforces the idea that all perspectives are valued.
It’s been over 30 years since
Bob Hoskins told us all it’s good to talk (yes, this writer is showing her age) but the advice still rings true.