Everyone communicates differently and this can lead to a misunderstanding of goals and priorities. Use this worksheet with your team members to better understand their preferred communication styles and methods so that everyone is on the same page and understands how to close communication loops effectively.
Receiving Information- Work with your teammate to discover their most and least effective ways to receive information. Methods of communication can include talking face-to-face, over the phone, texting and leaving a voicemail. Also discuss the style of delivering information such as getting to the bottom line; sharing lots of detail; and using lists, diagrams/pictures and models.
Giving Information- Work with your teammate to discover their most and least effective ways of giving information. Methods of communication can include talking face-to-face, over the phone, texting and leaving a voicemail. Also discuss the style of delivering information such as getting to the bottom line; sharing lots of detail; and using lists, diagrams/pictures and models.
Timing – Everyone structures their workdays differently. Work with your teammate to discover their most and least favorite times of day to communicate and share updates. This includes a specific time of day, last minute, in advance, scheduled meetings or on the fly.
Handling Stress – It’s important to learn how to communicate with team members under stress. Work with your teammate to find out their most and least favorite ways of communicating when stressed. This includes focus time, input from others, reassurance, time alone, and update meetings.
