Do You Know The Most Effective Problem Solving Skill?
No matter where you end, you will always find that you will conflict with someone, or find a problem. To handle situations like these you need to open lines of communication and listen to the others person side. It helps to understand why they did or said exactly what they did.
Defining the Concept of Open Communication
There is really nothing complicated about open communication. It simply means dealing with situations by putting everything on the table and hearing out the problems and suggestions of everyone involved.
Despite being so simplistic, open communication is actually the best way to conquer whatever obstacles come your way. From resolving serious issues like international conflicts between nations to almost mundane concerns like selecting the wall color for the new office conference room, open communication is the most effective means to arrive at a solution.
Techniques For Easy Problem-Solving
* Give everyone involved some time. Figure when it time and how to communicate. Some people need time to cool down before confrontation occurs. Then figure out if these types of people communicate better face to face, on the phone, or in a letter. (Remember, if you opt for a letter make sure to read it twice and make sure it doesn't sound mean. It's easier to be mean when you're not saying it out loud.)
* If you have a problem with a co-worker, make sure to keep your tone from being accusatory during your discussion. Also, restrain yourself from asserting authority especially when the other person seems willing to make a fair compromise.
* Do not take it personally. Keep in mind that you are having issues with the situation at hand and not with your co-worker. Because of this, you must never cross the boundary and make personal attacks on the individual.
* Encourage everyone, both at home and in the workplace, to feel free in expressing their opinions and ideas at all times, albeit in a respectful manner. This practice will help minimize conflicts and help foster stronger relationships.
* In case a conflict does arise and you find yourself in the middle, you can help resolve it by not taking sides. Instead, allow both sides to take turns in airing out their differences. Solicit their suggestions on how to solve the problem, while also giving your own suggestions.
Open Communication In Personal Relationships
These techniques don't just work out for efficient problem solving at work but it works for any personal relationship as well. Use them whenever you get in an arguement with a loved one.
Practice... It Gets Easier
In the beginning, you may find yourself having a difficult time being completely open in communicating with others. During the discussion of a conflict, feeling may still be hurt and grudges may still be kept. But as you keep practicing open communication, you and your co-workers will gradually get used to the concept and will eventually be able to use it in resolving issues without too many problems.
This open communication technique also works with rumors around work. Confront people and put everything out on the table. You'll see sooner or later everyone in the workplace will pick up on your habit.
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Published February 3rd, 2009
Filed in Management