Communication Memo - 10 SKILLS TO IMPROVE YOUR COMMUNICATION

This Memo is a collection of essential tools and practices to improve your communication skills

WHILE YOU AT WORK

Do not study it at home. I wish that all I have read yesterday I would remember today. But it doesn't work that way, does it?

Instead:

1. Come to work. Say hello to everyone.
2. Decide what you would like to work on improving today (check the topics below) or start with the topics in the given order. Choose 1 or 2 topics (NOT MORE) that will preferably be in use TODAY. 
3. Dedicate 2-5 minutes to read short instructions and examples to get the essential information you need. 
4. Choose 1-2 tools from Weekly Practice to do. Do and then decide if it works for you. Don't skip it because you assume it's not important, too difficult or too easy. Assumptions need to be tested to become facts. 
5. Take few seconds at the end of the day to acknowledge your achievements and to think what needs more improvement.

Or use this memo as a quick reference tool once in doubt of how to approach a certain situation at work where effective communication is a must:

• Meetings
• Handling difficult interactions
• Making impact
• Seeking alignment and understanding with your colleagues, managers or clients

Memo Contains: 

• 10 topics: Understanding Your Audience, Active Listening, Speaking Up in Meetings, Non-Verbal Communication, Digital Etiquette, Handling Difficult Interactions, Asking Better Questions, Framing Messages for Impact, Cross-Cultural & Inclusive Communication and Negotiation. Klick on the topic at Table of Content to get redirected to the specific page.

Each topic contains:

·     WHY? Gives you an answer to “Why should I practice this skill?”.

·     HOW? Do and Don’t tables with simple instructions and examples or a comparison table (Understanding Your Audience).

·     Examples. Actual phrases you can use with your Manager, Coworker or Client.

·     Quick Tips. 3 extra practical tips.

·     Sources and Reading. Links to the articles on the specific topic to expand your knowledge.

·     Link to Weekly Practice. Klick on it to get redirected to Weekly Practice exercises.

•  Recommendations for Practicing. Simple instructions (recommendations) of how you can practice tools given in the next pages – Weekly Practices.

• Weekly Practices. 3 Weekly Practices: Week 1, Week 2, Week 3. Each Week contains 10 tools for you to practice during a week (1-2 tools per day). Tools are made according to the topics in the Communication Memo. We recommend reading the topic before starting practicing tools (klick on the tool name to be redirected to a specific page). Printable version of Weekly Practices in A4 (29.7 cm x 42 cm, 11.69" x 8.27") size will be added to your order. Use it as a visual reminder to stay motivated or to include your team in developing communication skills.

• Summary. 10 short tips to get better at Communication at work. Each tip reflects each topic of Communication Memo. Printable poster version in A3 (29.7 cm x 42 cm, 11.69" x 16.54") size will be added to your order. Hang it where your team can see it and learn together!