Care and Engagement: Communicated Effectively

This article was published on Matrix Search: Conversations, written by David Bendea an emerging leader who we are honoured to be have part of Matrix Search Group.  

On Wednesday, May 13th, Matrix Search Group gathered an expert industry panel to continue the Real Talk Series into Phase II: Leadership Communication Gaps: Bridging Communication as We Maximize Efficiencies with Corporate Commercial Real Estate. Sharing insight, inspiring new perspectives or just simply highlighting common issues tends to bring people together in forming strong bonds – This is the atmosphere of Matrix Search: Real Talk Series 2015.

A sense of purpose is what drives the actions of people and business. When there is a greater good at the end of the tunnel, success is inherently different. Matrix Search Group started its Real Talk Series with the intention of connecting like-minded individuals together in the form of intimate panel discussions about corporate issues that affect the primary asset of any business, its people.

“Communication is as much about listening as it is about talking. It’s always a two-way street.”

Effective communication was highlighted as the topic of discussion for the evening as it is a major factor in day to day interactions, and there exist clear gaps in leadership communication within Corporate Canada. Truly understanding one another goes much deeper than the words that are said. The very success of corporations is a direct result of its communication effectiveness. Leadership that cares is integral to moving a business forward and is critical for success.

“Try to speak the same language”

Studies have highlighted that communication is in fact very little about what is actually said, and very much about all the other variables of non-verbal communication. As the Mehrabian Equation explains, words only constitute 7% of the message received. Bearing this in mind, our communication with our peers should focus on the appropriate context, needs, and preferences, and even take into account societal norms.

 “Don’t be afraid to be the one to wear red socks.”

Yet, the simplest perceptions will positively or negatively affect the outcome of conversations and the relationship between people. The second part of the discussion during the Q&A period highlighted one instance where a small piece of personal expression, red socks in this case, was suggested as the reason for an unsuccessful interaction. While perhaps an interesting anecdote, it serves as analogy to an existing problem in Corporate Canada: The thought process of Corporate Canada needs to focus on being more inclusive, without assumptions, and focused on the merit of people. There is a strong need for a systematic shift in thought and effective communication is a key vehicle.

“Don’t be afraid to be the one to speak out.”
“Don’t be afraid to tell leaders if you disagree with them, and why”

Constructive communication with leadership and peers is critical to ensure needs are addressed, the company is engaged and moving forward together with its people. In this way, communication is the key to understand each person’s viewpoints and allows people to be mindful of the fact that there are different goals, experiences, and expectations at play. Disagreements will happen. However, can be handled in a constructive manner when leaders truly care about their businesses and listen to the people’s voices within the organization.

Real Talk Phase II: Leadership Communication Gaps: Bridging Communication as We Maximize Efficiencies with Corporate Commercial Real Estate was moderated byBarbara Ciesla, Senior Vice President, Occupier Strategies & Solutions, Jones Lang Lasalle Canada, The panelists included: Brent Chamberlain, Associate Director, Diversity and Inclusion, Bell Canada, Clinton Robinson, Chief Executive Officer and Vision Leadership, Technology, Mona Networks Inc, Emily Hanna, Partner, Investment, Crown Realty Partners, Nancy Trites Botkin, Co-Founder and President, Think8 Systems, Lui Mancinelli, Senior Vice President, Stantec,  Nada Sutic, Director, Property Management, Bentall Kennedy.

It is with like-minded individuals connecting, that together our actions suggest we want a brighter future, and are willing and able to positively influence the state of Corporate Canada. We know that at certain instances, it’s not better to take the safe route, that we have to get comfortable being uncomfortable, but no matter the setting, “Change happens when we communicate effectively.”