People-to-People Skills

Easy to remember, easy to use — skills that are fundamental to all verbal exchange:

Why plan?

Good communication is the product of good planning. When you plan, you prepare the path for effective communication and avoid getting sidetracked or derailed.

Why position?

Communicating your intent relaxes the listener by reducing the threat of a hidden agenda. It also gives the listener an oppportunity to accept the topic or change of focus, or to offer an alternative.

Why listen actively?

Listening actively heightens your awareness in an interaction. It encourages two-way communication. It helps the other person to know that you are listening. Relationships improve when you try to understand the other person's point of view.

Why express support?

An individual's self-esteen affects his or her willingness to cooperate and contribute. By expressing support, you maintain the self-esteem of others and create a motivating work environment.

Why request input?

You can make better-informed decisions when you have the benefit of others' opinions and expertise. By involving other people and by seeking their input, you can win buy-in, cooperation and support.

Why give input?

Your information and expertise are valuable resources. When you share appropriate input, you help other people do their jobs and make informed decisions. Your input has the most impact when it is communicated to the appropriate people with sensitivity, clarity and accuracy.

Why close?

The close of an interaction affirms what has taken place and increases the likelihood of continued progress.