You’re having trouble communicating with your IT team. How can you improve your communication skills?

1 Assess your communication style

The first step to improve your communication skills is to understand your own communication style and preferences. Are you more assertive or passive? Do you prefer written or verbal communication? How do you express your ideas, feedback, and emotions? How do you handle conflict and criticism? By being aware of your strengths and weaknesses, you can adapt your communication style to different situations and people.

4 Listen actively and empathetically

Another essential tip for improving your communication skills is to listen actively and empathetically. Listening is not just hearing, but understanding, acknowledging, and responding to what the other person is saying. Show your interest and attention by maintaining eye contact, nodding, and asking questions. Avoid interrupting, judging, or criticizing the speaker. Try to understand their perspective, feelings, and needs. Repeat or summarize what you heard to confirm your understanding and avoid misunderstandings.

5 Give and receive feedback constructively

Feedback is a key component of communication, as it helps you and your team members improve your performance, skills, and relationships. However, giving and receiving feedback can be difficult, as it may trigger defensiveness, resentment, or conflict. To ensure feedback is constructive, it should be given in a timely, specific, and positive manner. Focus on the behavior and provide suggestions for improvement rather than criticism. Express appreciation for the good work. When receiving feedback, it's important to remain open-minded with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. Don't take feedback personally or react emotionally. Ask for clarification or examples if needed and thank the giver for their feedback. Finally, act on the feedback given.

6 Resolve conflicts respectfully

Conflict is an inevitable part of any team, but it can be a great source of growth, innovation and collaboration if managed properly. To resolve conflicts respectfully, first identify the source and nature of the conflict. Is it about facts, goals, methods, values, or relationships? Then communicate calmly and respectfully with the other party. Use “I” statements to express your feelings and needs without blaming, accusing or attacking. Listen to their side of the story and try to understand their point of view. Finally, seek a win-win solution that satisfies both parties. Brainstorm different options and evaluate their pros and cons before choosing one that best meets the interests and needs of both parties. Once a plan has been agreed upon, follow up on the results to ensure success. Communication is a skill that can be developed over time with practice, feedback and reflection. By following these tips, you can enhance your communication skills with your IT team to achieve better outcomes, relationships and satisfaction.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?