20 May
|
2 mins
You know the scenario…team members seem to all know each other, have worked together on different occasions over the years, you think they’re all able to get on… but personalities clash, difficulties appear, people seem to be ignoring or avoiding certain individuals in the group, there’s a feeling of stepping on eggshells around some team members, whilst others have retreated into their shells and are just keeping their heads down until the project comes to an end.
What was supposed to be a positive team effort turns into atrial to see if everyone can get through to the end of the task without killing each other!
So is communication, communication, communication the answer?
Well yes – and no…
Of course, creating a more open and collaborative communication environment helps. 'They never tell us anything’ poisons morale and motivation: mushroom management at its most destructive. But the ‘how’ you convey messages is just as important as the ‘what’. The same message might be given to each person, but that doesn’t stop it being interpreted and understood differently by each individual.
Understanding personalities, behavioural traits, differing communication preferences and needs of each team member makes it easier to tailor your interpersonal style to ensure the messages land effectively.
But where to begin?
Think about the pace at which they approach things – are they fast and action-oriented or calm and reflective? Do they like to dive into changes head first without hesitation or do they need some time to mull things over and get acclimatised to the changes first?
And what’s their usual approach to people – naturally warm and receptive or guarded and sceptical? Chatty and outgoing or more reserved and private?
Extroverts or introverts? Domineering and outspoken or more sensitive and thoughtful? Do they love personal recognition or are they happier being seen as part of the team? Do they tend to be detail-oriented or big picture focused?
All these elements should be taken into account to shape how you convey a message.
So many things to work out…but often so little time to do it in!
Let’s speed up the process!
Everything DiSC can determine the differences for you. DiSC profiles are easy to understand, fun to explore and learn about – and the best news is that there’s no such thing as the ’right’ or ‘wrong’ profile. Every style is equally valuable and brings something important to a team mix.
Getting to grips with the needs of your colleagues and communicating in a way that is meaningful to them is absolutely crucial in connecting and ensuring team members understand each other.
The most successful leaders understand that it’s how you connect and reach people that makes the difference and the organisations that thrive over the next few years are likely to be those whose leaders can handle challenging people dynamics, even when the pressure is on.
