Level 3
Encourage Communication
Verbal Ways to Encourage Communication
Conversations are a two-way process
Take turns talking
Stimulate talking
Ask direct questions
Ask open-ended questions
Make requests
Express thoughts, feelings and concerns
Say what you need and don’t need
Say what you like and want,
Say what you don’t like and don’t want
Encourage people to express ideas, suggestions
Don’t say no without consideration
If saying no, explain reasons why
Clarify the purpose of the conversation
Ask for feedback
Encourage opinions
Make it feel safe to talk openly
Accept feedback and act on it
Don’t see feedback as criticism
Review how things are going
Discuss circumstances after an event
Discuss what can go wrong
Have GRIPE sessions to discuss concerns
Speak calmly even in stressful situations
Give credit and pay compliments
Encourage communication
Keep finding ways to improve communications
Offer multiple ways or forums to speak
Top-down and Bottom-up communication
Maintain channels of communication
Find a quiet place to talk
Avoid constant interruptions and distractions
Make people feel at ease
How have you encouraged communication today
Non Verbal Ways to Encourage Communication
Provide opportunities to talk,
Find a quiet place to talk
Set aside time to talk
Meet regularly to talk
Postpone any discussion if more time is needed
Eliminate distractions
Rarely interrupt
Non Verbal Ways to Pay Attention
Actively listen
Understands what is said
Clarify what’s been said
Show interest in what is being said
Allow people time to express their thoughts
Wait for pauses before speaking
Think about what is being said
Be aware of non-verbal communication
Be aware of people’s reactions and responses
Look at people when they talk
Make eye contact
Don’t appear impatient
Lean forward
Be pleasant and courteous
Smile when appropriate
Show you like, accept, appreciate, or value people