We hear it all the time.

Without effective communication every interpersonal relationship, every goal, every strategy, every organization, is at risk.

Misunderstandings, poor morale, and ineffective relationships rooted in poor communication are commonplace.

Effective communication is hard.  It can be uncomfortable.  It can make people angry with you.

But, it’s the only way to solve problems.

When times are difficult and emotions are running high, how can we be sure we’re communicating effectively (and respectfully)?

It’s time to get back to basics. 

Listen to what others are saying.  Adjust your style to try and connect with them effectively where they are. 

Don’t think it’s the other person’s job to communicate with you no matter where you are on the organizational chart.

Remove yourself emotionally from difficult conversations, at first.  Listen. Ask questions. Stick to the cold, hard facts when assessing a situation. 

However, when it comes time to implement a decision it’s time to let emotions back into the picture.  

If you find that a conversation or a topic is annoying you in some way, get another person’s perspective.

Effective communication is like exercise.  We all know how to do it.  We all know that we should do it. Yet it’s often neglected.