3 Keys to Being Heard and Valued: Enhancing Your Influence and Impact
Trevor E S Smith
Coaches teams to high performance | Improves Team Dynamics/Productivity | Trains, Coaches & Certifies Leaders | Guides Role Fit Recruitment | Provides Tech Solutions, Done-for-You Online Courses, Competency Framework v2
In today's fast-paced world, effective communication is not just a desirable skill; it is a critical factor for success in both personal and professional endeavors. Research consistently underscores the pivotal role communication plays in fostering productivity, innovation, and cohesive team dynamics.
In this Success with People Newsletter, I am excited to share three pivotal keys to being heard and valued, based on my unique experience in this area, our DISCerning Communication model, and incorporating relevant research findings and compelling case studies.
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Key #1: Understanding Your Audience's Communication Style
Research by Harvard Business Review reveals that personalized communication significantly enhances outcomes, with tailored messages being 40% more persuasive than generic ones. Our DISCerning Communication model aligns perfectly with this notion, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual communication styles to tailor our message effectively.
Utilizing the DISCerning Communication model, we recognize that individuals possess unique communication styles that apply a blend of behaviors from the four main classifications - Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness. By developing the skill to discern behavioral styles, you not only increase the likelihood of your message being heard but you also foster deeper connections and rapport.
Think of being able to speak multiple languages fluently. Could you leverage that to be connected to a much wider audience at a more meaningful level?
THAT is what we are doing behaviorally – and that is even more important than mastering the spoken word!
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Key #2: Adaptability - The Launch Pad To Deeper Connection
A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology highlights the importance of adaptability in leadership, showing that leaders who demonstrate flexibility in their communication styles are more likely to inspire trust and engagement among their teams.
Incorporating the principles of DISCerning Communication allows us to adapt our approach seamlessly, catering to the preferences of our audience. Through this adaptability, we not only enhance understanding but also cultivate an environment of collaboration and synergy.
Do you know anyone who is fixed in their views?
How easy is it to really bond with them? (Unless of course, you hold those same views firmly yourself! ??)
The DISCerning model emphasizes flexibility in our approach, allowing us to pivot our communication style to better connect with others. Whether your preference is "D-Style" seeking to convey authority and efficiency, "I-Style" aiming for enthusiasm and rapport, "S-Style" prioritizing harmony and stability, or "C-Style" focusing on accuracy and precision, adapting your style enhances rapport and fosters mutual understanding.
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Key #3: Active Listening - Honoring Diverse Perspectives
The power of active listening in fostering meaningful relationships and driving organizational success is underscored by research from the Center for Creative Leadership. Their studies demonstrate that leaders who actively listen to their team members are better equipped to make informed decisions and foster a culture of innovation.
Leveraging the DISCerning Communication lens enriches our listening skills, enabling us to decode the nuances of communication and respond with empathy and clarity, thus deepening trust and collaboration within teams and in our personal lives.
Case Studies
Now, let's delve into three compelling case studies that exemplify the transformative impact of DISCerning Communication in real-world scenarios:
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Case Study 1: Improving Sales Effectiveness
A global sales team struggling to connect with diverse clients undergoes DISCerning Communication training. By tailoring their approach to match client communication styles, they see a dramatic increase in client engagement and a similar boost in sales conversions within six months.
One concrete example is Steve - a paper products sales rep. He develops an excellent relationship with Suzzie, the owner of a retail outlet. Interestingly, on a visit, Suzzie orders from Steve’s competitor while he is engaging her in conversation. Steve did not appreciate that Suzzie’s S-Style behavioral profile may require gentle, but firm persuasion to change from a routine.
?NOTE: If your Sales Force is not schooled in the use of DISCerning Communication you are leaving at least 20% for your competitors. We can fix it!
Case Study 2: Enhancing Team Collaboration
A multinational corporation implements DISCerning Communication principles in their cross-functional teams. By fostering adaptability and active listening, they witness a reduction in conflicts which leads to improved engagement and an improvement in project completion rates, resulting in significant cost savings and increased productivity.
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Case Study 3: Strengthening Leadership Effectiveness
A mid-sized company invests in DISCerning Communication training for their leadership team. As a result, leaders report an increase in employee satisfaction scores and a marked reduction in turnover rates, demonstrating the profound impact of effective communication on employee engagement and retention.
When leaders communicate to each team member in their preferred behavioral language, the impact on team dynamics is stunning!
BOTTOM LINE
Incorporating these three keys into your communication repertoire empowers you to navigate diverse interactions with confidence and finesse. By embracing the principles of DISCerning Communication, we not only ensure our message is heard but also foster genuine connections and mutual respect.
Together, let's embark on a journey towards mastery in communication and unlock new levels of success in all facets of life AND plug the hole in your sales performance.
I invite you to join me on our next Success with People Live Cast, where we'll delve deeper into these keys and explore practical strategies for enhancing your communication effectiveness.
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Best wishes
Trevor E S Smith
DISCerning Communication Expert
Success with People Academy - Member INFOSERV Group
We deploy our DISCerning Model of Communication and Leadership to promote personal, team, and organizational growth. The process is supported by granular Behavioral DNA assessments from Extended DISC??on the revolutionary FinxS??Platform. Talk to us about Team Dynamics and Performance.
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