Copyright © 2013 - 360Solutions, LLC
Communication is a cornerstone of how
well teams interact, perform, and ultimately,
produce results. High performance teams
are aware that perceptions are often
based on past experiences and can vary
from person to person. They can also get
in the way of communication. However,
high performance teams can learn to use
verbal and non-verbal communication
and effective listening skills to avoid
misunderstandings and loss of productivity
in a team environment.
Communication within teams can be a
complex process. Often, it is difficult to put
internal perceptions, feelings and motives
into meaning and words. Messages can
be misunderstood and misinterpreted due
to personal attitudes, feelings, motives
and experiences. Additionally, non-verbal
behaviors may communicate a conflicting
message than is in contrast to the one that
is being verbalized. In a team environment,
communication can be difficult but it is
possible with effort and attention.
Active listening is a skill that is evident
in high performance teams. Listening –
the true ability to accurately perceive a
message that is conveyed by another – is
far more than the exchange of information.
When active listening is employed, it creates
a safe place for team members to explore
ideas and builds confidence and trust within
the team.
Active listening involves six steps, including:
•
Create a safe place by drawing the
person out with terms such as “could
you explain” or “tell me more” and by
acknowledging what is being said
•
Become actively involved by
focusing completely on the speaker,
maintaining eye contact, tuning out
distractions, and maintaining an open
and relaxed posture
•
Avoid the temptation to evaluate and
resist judging or criticizing
•
Search for meaning by decoding the
message and trying to discover the
real message
•
Confirm understanding with
acknowledgment, restating points and
paraphrasing the message
•
Bring closure by summarizing
the conversation and agreeing on
necessary actions
How
High Performance Teams
Communica e