Workplace Communications

Question 1

Feedback in communication

Answer 1

• One way to address the noise
• Part of communication loop that helps receives confirm they understood the message

Question 2

Giving feedback

Answer 2

• Should be timely and specific
• Should be prepared ahead of time - clear in purpose, with examples and applying EI to the situation

Question 3

Employee is more receptive to feedback if

Answer 3

There is a strong employer-employee relationship If they feel valued

Question 4

Delivery of negative feedback

Answer 4

• Create an opportunity for the employee to discuss their goals and hoped-for results
• Then state additional goals and present the negative feedback “things like that are happening that will prevent us from reaching these goals” - helps employee understand premise or criteria under criticism

Question 5

Benefits of feedback

Answer 5

• Improves personal performance and performance of a team/HR unit
• Identifies gaps between expectations and performance
• Correct “blind spots”

Question 6

Blind spots

Answer 6

Misconceptions in how we view others and how we think we are viewed by others

Question 7

Recommendations for receiving feedback

Answer 7

• Decide on kind of feedback you need and the best person to give it
• Discussion should follow soon after activity to be discussed
• Listen actively, ask questions to understand.
  
  • Do not be defensive.
• After discussion reflect on what has been said.
  
  • Offer thanks
  • Follow up with person giving feedback on your experience and applying ideas and advice

Question 8

Purpose of communication in group discussions

Answer 8

Elicit information

Question 9

Facilitator in group decisions

Answer 9

• Encourage full discussion of a topic
• Participation of the entire group
• Good listeners - interpret and confirm what the group is saying
• Good observer of non-verbals and group dynamics

Question 10

Leading More Effective Staff Meetings

Answer 10

• Have a purpose for the meeting and ensure everyone understands this purpose
• Set agenda with defined items and circulate before the meeting
• Limit meeting time to what is needed to address agenda items
• Start on time
• Find ways to change things up
• Take time to resolve conflicts but postpone those conflicts that may be too difficult to resolve until after the meeting
• Review any decisions and next steps until the meetings end
• Send e-mail summary for more complex agendas
• Have occasional meeting on meetings to find if current approach is meeting team goals