Modes of communication

In addition to knowing your people, leaders of others need to know how and when to communicate. Something‘a can be an email, some have to be face to face. For a while in my leadership, I would email just about everything. It was convenient for me, I could do it on my time, I didn’t get “stuck” in a conversation, and I could just move on to the next task. I came to realize I was missing out on so much around me.

Being intentional of meeting with people face to face brings so much more to the organization, but be mindful of others time. I like to ask people when it would be convenient to have a conversation, but also put them at ease while asking.

“I would like to talk with you for a few minutes about … When would be most convenient for you?” I do this with teachers I oversee and kids I teach. When in a position of authority, when a message is sent to someone telling them you need to talk, it immediately puts them on edge. Giving them an a purpose, and making it when they can do it starts conversation off better. Even if it’s going to be a difficult conversation, at least people can come in prepared for that and not defensive or caught off guard.

Emails should be used for notification of information, or even a quick yes or no type question. Anything else, a quick conversation will lead to deeper answers, and also branch into topics they want to discuss. People feel valued, heard, and supported. You make yourself visible and available. You learn more about the people you are trying to lead, and are able to make a bigger impact in your role.

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