What do you do if your strategic career decisions in Interpersonal Communication backfire?

2 Seek Feedback

Once you've done some self-reflection, the next step is to seek feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors. They can provide an outside perspective on where your strategic decisions might have gone awry. Remember, in interpersonal communication, perception is often as important as reality. Others can offer insights into how your actions were perceived and the impact they had. Be open to constructive criticism and ask specific questions to gain valuable insights. This feedback can be instrumental in understanding the interpersonal dynamics that may have affected your strategies.

3 Adjust Strategy

After reflecting and gathering feedback, it's time to adjust your strategy. Perhaps you need to develop new skills, such as active listening or conflict resolution, to better navigate future interactions. Alternatively, you might need to revise your approach to networking or negotiating. Whatever the case, use the insights gained to inform your new strategy. It's important to be flexible and willing to experiment with different approaches. Interpersonal communication is an art as much as it is a science, and sometimes it takes a few attempts to find the right balance.

4 Build Resilience

Building resilience is crucial when dealing with setbacks. Resilience in interpersonal communication means maintaining a positive attitude, even when things don't go as planned. It involves being adaptable and not letting failures define your self-worth or career trajectory. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, focus on what you can control and how you can move forward. Resilience will not only help you recover from backfired decisions but also prepare you for future challenges that may arise in your career.

5 Network Effectively

Networking is an essential part of any career, but it's especially important in the field of interpersonal communication. A strong network can provide support, advice, and opportunities for collaboration. If your strategic decisions have backfired, reach out to your network for support. Share your experiences and listen to others who may have faced similar challenges. Effective networking can open doors to new perspectives and approaches that you may not have considered. It's also a way to demonstrate your commitment to growth and learning within your field.

6 Embrace Change

Finally, embracing change is essential when recovering from career setbacks. The field of interpersonal communication is constantly evolving, and what worked yesterday may not work today. Be open to new ideas and be willing to change your approach if necessary. This might mean taking on new roles or responsibilities, continuing your education, or even changing your career path. Embracing change shows that you're proactive and dedicated to excelling in your field, regardless of the obstacles you face.