The task of engaging often comes down to the job of the leader or manager. Many times the leader has a long list of duties that include- connecting with and keeping the team engaged. This involves nurturing a relationship and communicating in a clear, concise and empathetic way. A human way.

Soft skills are not some hippy, ‘woo woo’ concept.  Soft skills are life skills, they help us to form and sustain relationships, help us manage ourselves and others and they make us human. Communication skills are one of the most important soft skills, not only for leaders and managers but for anyone.
I want to share why communication skills matter for employee engagement and why human connection is the secret sauce.

Think of a two-way radio or a walkie talkie. When you have your finger on the talk button, you can talk. But at that time it cuts the audio from the other side and you can’t hear what they are saying. Human are not good listeners. But we can do better if we decide to.

Have you been in a conversation and been triggered by something they said, which distracts you?
Do you interrupt people when they talk?

Of course we all do these things, because we are human, it is normal. But when it is an important conversation, for us or for the other person, these natural responses can hold us back from really understanding what the person is trying to share.

Something that builds stronger human relationships is that we have a shared truth. That starts by moving out of what we know to be our through and getting a better understanding of another person’s perspective. That all starts with listening. Here are some tips to help you listen better…

The case for communication professionals to take their seat as a coach. No table required!