How Do You Hear What Isn’t Said?

Effective communication is the cornerstone of every relationship, and the cornerstone of effective communication is listening.  

But what happens when communication is not verbal? Management guru, Peter Drucker, famously said: “The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn't said.” Often, that is about body language and perceiving messages that may not be spoken.  

Building a solid company that moves forward requires a strong foundation. When you have effective communication, it puts your business on solid footing and positions it for strategic growth.  

Many small business owners struggle to find the time and energy to train their staff. When there is a training program, it typically focuses on providing client services, not on foundational skills, like communication and leadership skills.  

If you are struggling to build an effective team instead of moving your company forward, you probably have a communication problem.  

Today’s Question:  

What does it take for your team to really deliver? 

But Here’s the Twist . . . 

Are you aware of what’s really happening in your business – and ready to address issues - or is it just easier to keep plugging along?  

• Does your team struggle to communicate what they need? 
• Is there frequent conflict among your staff? 
• Do you often feel like no one is listening? 
• Do you lose staff because they are frustrated with the lack of effective communication? 
• Is there a disconnect between hiring a new employee, training them, and what they actually deliver? 
• Are your team members as productive as they could be? 
• Do you struggle to standardize customer service, so your clients have consistent experiences? 

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, addressing these early warning signs could change your business from the inside out. 

Now What? 

Developing a well-rounded professional development program within your company, I recommend focusing on 3 goals to improve communication: 

1. Make a connection 
2. Act instead of react 
3. Maintain control of the interaction 

We achieve these goals by improving interpersonal skills, active listening and body language. Body language extends from physical appearance to eye contact, tone of voice, and intensity. 

The first step to improving communication is to overcome obstacles like: 

• Processing information or deciding what to say while someone is speaking 
• Making assumptions of what someone wants or needs, instead of asking 
• Regularly breaking eye contact 
• Poor body language, sending inconsistent or unintended messages 
• Losing control of the interaction, especially if the person keeps talking or gets emotional 

With a professional development program that addresses communication skills, all aspects of your business will benefit from increased efficiency, improved workflow, service delivery, and customer service. 

Then, you and your team can become proficient at ‘hearing what isn’t said.’ 

What is the biggest communication struggle you have inside your business? I'd love to hear how you are handling these challenges. Direct message or email me! 

Patty's email: [email protected] 

P.S. Are you giving 'invisible' discounts to prospects who didn't ask for them? The anxiety you feel when talking with a potential client leaks out when you slash your price because you're afraid you'll lose the opportunity if you don't.  

I’ve broken down exactly why this 'discount dilemma' happens in an exclusive training called The Value Equation, which you can get for FREE by signing up for the bonuses that are companion pieces for my book, Your Hidden Advantage. 

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? The Block Group Inc.