Some people show up late to work. Others constantly complain. Still others make frequent mistakes. And there are a few whose negative behaviours cause problems for others. How does a good manager respond?
Click start to play today’s Spell It, where you can find the word “tact” – an underrated but extremely vital skill for workplace communication.
All managers experience moments where they need to have difficult conversations with their employees. Their ability to handle uncomfortable interactions quickly, effectively, and with productive results, is one way they stand out as great leaders. And experts say one of the most powerful skills in their arsenal is tact.
A 2018 global study of 15,242 managers and professionals by US-based business news website Business Insider, identified 100 skills that a manager can master to become a better leader. About 41.8 per cent of professionals valued being tactful as one of the most important skills for managing difficult work scenarios.
Luckily, it’s possible to learn to be more tactful. Here are three tips to help people become more tactful at the workplace:
1. Prepare and plan
Discuss the situation with an emotionally intelligent colleague before speaking with the employee. Hashing out what the person might be thinking or feeling, and what their points of sensitivity are likely to be, will help you refine your message accordingly.
2. Choose words carefully
The emotional impact of our words can influence how others perceive our message. For instance, when giving constructive criticism, avoid starting sentences with the word “you”, and use “I” statements instead. “I didn’t understand what you were saying,” is better than “you were unclear”.
3. Pay attention to body language
Keeping your own body language open when you’re communicating, helps keep your message authentic and empathetic. Making eye contact, having good posture, and making sure you don’t cross your arms or legs, or point fingers, all go a long way. Similarly, you can watch for indicators in the other person’s body language to see how they are receiving and responding to your message. Is their body physically turned away from you, are their arms crossed, are their eyes maintaining little contact? Picking up on these signs helps you tailor your own message in response.
How tactful do you think you are, in such situations? Play today’s Spell It and tell us at games@gulfnews.com.
