I always remind people that communication is an art, not a science. Imperfect by nature, communication requires continuous effort, honesty, and the willingness to apologize if necessary to try again to make things better. Let’s delve into a real-life scenario that underscores the delicate nature of communication and how an artful approach can make all the difference.
Meet Laura, a department manager, faced with a sales challenge. Instead of taking responsibility for the issues within her purview, she chose to shift blame onto Tom, another department manager. This act, commonly known as “throwing someone under the bus,” not only reflected Laura’s low sandbox factor to management but also created tension that trickled into their workplace departments.
Communication is an art…
The exchange in the meeting showcased a lack of accountability:
Meeting Chair: “Laura, did your sales department work harder to reach our projected target for widgets this quarter?”
Laura: “I would like to report a sales increase, but the quality of the widgets was substandard for the market, and I asked Tom to deal with it at his department, but I never heard back.”
Tom: “You can’t pin your poor sales and unproductive team on me.”
The room felt awkward, and conflict brewed between Laura and Tom, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present, including HR. Such instances, though not uncommon, highlight the need to treat communication as an art form.
The aftermath of this communication serves as a reminder that people will always remember how you make them feel. Even when Tom was no longer under the bus, the tension lingered, creating a memory that Tom and other colleagues at that table, including HR, wouldn’t soon forget.
Not a science…
It’s never too late to mend the consequences of poor communication. Just like an Etch-a-Sketch drawing can be shaken and erased, a sincere apology can untangle knots created by passing the buck or pointing blame. Acknowledging mistakes and taking responsibility is a powerful tool that allows for a clean slate.
As Maya Angelou wisely said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” The emotions we evoke through our communication are etched into the memories of those we interact with.
Strive to draw your communication within the lines of responsibility, honesty, and sincere apologies, creating a masterpiece of understanding and collaboration that reflects in your workplace to colleagues and managers. If at first you don’t succeed, apologize and begin again to return to a clean slate.
Do you notice communication affecting your workplace relationships? Book a discovery call with Penny today to learn more about facilitated discussions and leadership training offered to manage conflict and relationships at work, while increasing your profitability, performance, and peace.
Best,
Penny
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