1.5 - About University

Communicationfactors➊ Use CORE to determinewhat to communicate toemployees.➋ DIRECT shows you howto communicateinformation in a straightforwardand two-waymanner.➌ TRUST underlies allcommunication.➍ HEAR is a tool to improvelistening skills.➎ Keep the communicationchannels OPEN.How to’sC – Changes taking placeO – Objectives, business strategiesR – Reasons behind decisionsE – Effect on employeesD – Discuss details with employees.I – Invite questions.R – Recognize ideas, regardless of their source.E – Enable others to act.C – (Address) Changes openly.T – Translate difficult information into easily understood language.T – Trust comes from being candid and open with employees.R – Recognize employee communication needs.U – Usual behavior, predictable and consistent on your part, will gain you trust.S – ”Sussing out values”: Employees deduce your values from your behavior.T – Trust; don’t break confidentiality.H – Honor others and what they have to say.E – Echo what employees say to ensure you understand their intent.A – Ask questions to engage employees.R –Respond without becoming defensive.O – Open to feedback: Demonstrate a willingness to listen.P – Patience: Find time to meet with employees and hear their concerns.E – Empathy: Walk in others’ shoes.N – Needs of your direct reports: Provide information employees need to do their jobs.H OW TO USE THIS LEADERSHIP TOOL“Resist the urge to stop communicating. Just because you have said it a million times doesn’t mean it’s beenheard that many times. You can get tired of your voice long before you’re understood or believed.”—Ron George, CEO, Suncor EnergyAs a leader, you need to make it a high priority to communicate with your workgroup anddirect reports, regardless of your level in the management structure. Think of a specific communicationchallenge you presently face or will need to handle in the near future. Use theworksheet provided to describe the situation; to plan the steps you will take to ensure yourcommunication helps employees to fully understand the business needs; and to commit tomeeting business goals.WEB WORKSHEETThe communication challenge (the situation):SECTION 8 TOOLS FOR COMMUNICATION 237