Jacquie Coleman, co-founder of communications consultancy 1948, shares some simple strategies to bring about impactful conversations in the workplace, and beyond.
I tend to have two business overhauls twice a year – at the start of autumn, and in spring. I find it quite cathartic and enjoy taking time to think about how I can improve the way we operate.
As the co-founder of a small communications agency, which I set up with my husband Simon during lockdown, I’ve been busy working in the business rather than on the business, so this overhaul is very much needed.
Having ticked all the obvious points off my list, I started thinking about the way we address the challenging conversations that inevitably arise as a growing business, particularly when your business partner is also your life partner. It’s tough. And I imagine it’s the same if you’re working with a family member or a friend. We’ve had our fair share of difficult conversations, but they always end well. Most likely because this is an area we know lots about.
Our agency, 1948, helps businesses shape the conversations that deliver business growth. These might be conversations with current and potential new customers, which is my side of the business, but also conversations within the workplace, which is very much Simon’s domain.
As a former West End actor, Simon has spent the past decade transferring his skills into the business world, helping organisations understand the art of conversation and how small changes, and different ways of thinking, can have a huge impact of outcomes.
He tends to support business on the more challenging, courageous or uncomfortable conversations – the ones that are all too often side-stepped because of the very fact they are more challenging. We call them crucial conversations because they are essential to drive positive change within businesses.
Here are five tips to help you have better conversations. They are simple to implement, and you’ll feel the benefit almost immediately.
Five tips for better conversations with better outcomes:
- Take a deep breath before you start. It might seem simple, but we often forget to breathe, especially if we feel flustered or uncomfortable. Using your breath helps to power your thoughts and remain calm. It also slows you down and helps you find the right pace.
- What is your mindset? If you have negative thoughts about the person or the topic of conversation you will struggle to overcome it. Take control of the conversation by creating a growth mindset that can explore the possibilities and opportunities. Put yourself in the other person’s shoes and see things from their perspective, it really helps.
- Actively listen to what’s being said. If you’re formulating your next words and butting in, it means you’re not listening. Wait until the other person has finished, take a breath, and carry on.
- Choose your language carefully. Will it land well with the person you are speaking to? Think about what you are going to say and, just as importantly, how you are going to say it.
- For important conversations, make sure you take the time to plan what you’re going to say. What questions will you ask? Are they open ended? Make a note of the subject areas to be covered and mentally tick them off as you progress. Don’t read from a script, just be well prepared.
To find out more about 1948’s Crucial Conversations service click here.
