Tip 3/7 - Communicate Effectively

Tip 3/7 in the series for new Interims (and existing ones, and some of our clients, and some colleagues for that matter) - Communicate Effectively.

There's an argument to say this is one of, if not THE, biggest on the list. Over the years I have seen effective communication get nearly as many people out of a jam as ineffective communication getting somebody else into one.

Good communication is also the ability to not only listen to what IS being said, but to also hear what is NOT being said. It's an art, a fine one, become a master-communicator and away you go....?

Listen Actively

When communicating with clients or colleagues, take the time to listen actively. This means paying attention to what they are saying, asking questions for clarification, and summarising their points to ensure you understand their perspective (but don't do that thing where people say 'yes' or 'huh huh' and simultaneously nod every 2.5 seconds!).

Use Clear and Concise Language

Be mindful of this, all language has to be clear and concise to convey your message. And unless you are communicating with someone you KNOW get's the jargon and technical talk, I'd swerve using them altogether.

Be Professional

Almost goes without saying but you'd be surprised! Of course, maintain a professional demeanour at all times, whether communicating in person or over the phone or even email (other thoughts on email communication for another day). Use appropriate language and avoid slang or casual language. Over time as a rapport builds the professionalism may cool off a little, but don't let it cool TOO much - this is still a professional environment and there is always a line!

Be Aware of Non-Verbal Cues

This is all about being aware of others which is a skill in itself - non-verbal communication. Body language and tone of voice, can often convey more than words alone. Do pay attention to your own non-verbal cues and absolutely be aware of others’ cues as well.

Be Open to Feedback

For the sake of your own development and to a degree others perception of you as a professional, be open to feedback and willing to make adjustments to your communication style.

As a career Interim you will encounter many different people in many different environments, so you'll need to be versatile and tailor your communication to each individual.

If necessary, solicit feedback from others on how you can improve your communication skills and take their suggestions into account - everyone is the hero in their own story, right? Nope, sometimes the best views are when you look outside.

Use Technology Effectively

To communicate with others we have a number of technological avenues available to us and it is very easy to fire-off an email with some bad news, developmental feedback or something you are challenging.

These difficult situations could see you navigating through an absolute mine-field on the basis tone and language in a text, email or messenger is purely black or white - you are unable to show your face, body language or the encouragement in your voice. The human touch can be a reassuring.

Practice Active Communication

Finally, something which over the years Recruiters in particular have been accused of not doing, the practice of active communication. This is where you need to be proactive in your communication with others - follow up on conversations, provide updates, and keep others informed on your progress.

Next up in 4/7, Build Relationships.

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