Seminar: Timely Topics for Today’s Business World

Mr. Bernstein

Corporate Communicationsand Improving Organizational Communications, pp249-260

April 27, 2015

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Corporate CultureEvery organization has its own culture Culture includes accepted methods of formal and

informal communication

Communications NetworksFormal Networks – generally follow org charts, carry

official messagesInformal Networks – “the grapevine” – important even if

not always accurate

Seminar: Timely Topics for Today’s Business World

Mr. Bernstein

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Effective MeetingsMeetings can be time drainTo stay efficient:

Careful planning is keyAsk participants to come preparedHave an agenda and stick to itDon’t run overtimeConclude by summarizing results and required followups

BrainstormingUseful approach for creativity and innovation

Seminar: Timely Topics for Today’s Business World

Mr. Bernstein

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Dealing With ConflictAvoidance Strategy

Appear to agreeWorks for unimportant issues but can build resentment

Compromise StrategyEveryone gets part of what they want

Win/Lose StrategyNo compromiseDamaging to relationships

Seminar: Timely Topics for Today’s Business World

Mr. Bernstein

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Facilitating Better CommunicationsWork at being a better listener

1. Stop Talking!You cannot listen if you are talking2. Put the talker at easeCreate permissive environment3. Show a talker that you want to listenLook and act interested4. Remove distractionsShut the door if necessary5. Empathize with talkersTry to see the other person’s point of view

Seminar: Timely Topics for Today’s Business World

Mr. Bernstein

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Facilitating Better CommunicationsWork at being a better listener

6. Be patientDo not interrupt, allow plenty of time

7. Hold your temper…and you will understand better

8. Go easy on argument and criticismIt makes people defensive; even if you “win”, you may lose

9. Ask questionsEncourage the talker, controls conversation

10. Stop talking!You cannot gather new information while talking

Seminar: Timely Topics for Today’s Business World

Mr. Bernstein

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Encourage 2-way and Upward CommunicationsBe availableHave a plan to obtain feedback“Management by Walking Around”“Open Door Policy”Schedule regular meetings

Seminar: Timely Topics for Today’s Business World

Mr. Bernstein