Interpersonal Communication

How to make requests effectively

Make a request – not an order.

1. Invest in favors first.
2. Explain the context.
3. Acknowledge it’s a favor.
4. Point out where interests align.
5. Express genuine gratitude.

When to use the phone or send an email

Honor the recipient’s preference.

When to Use Email

• Simple info to convey
• Different time zones
• Late at night
• Recipient is talkative

When to Use the Phone

• Brainstorming or troubleshooting
• Emotional conversation

How to interpret non verbal cues

Think of nonverbal cues as pieces of data.

• Open vs. closed body language – compare it with other data
• Where their feet are pointing – it tells them where they should go
• Mismatched expressions
• Expressions of contempt – rolled eyes, smirking

How to manage expectations

• Rank your projects 
• Make time estimates
• Compare estimations with your boss
• Confirm project deadlines

Get the guidance you need

1. Discuss your communication
2. Plan regular check-ins
3. Develop an emergency plan
4. Create a job reference guide

Ask your boss the right questions

“What can I be doing that’s most helpful to you right now?”
“How should I prioritize that?”
“Do you see anything I’m missing?”

Know when to listen and when to speak

When to Listen

• You don’t know the context
• You don’t have a strong opinion

When to Speak

• You have experience to offer
• You have resources to share
• You have a strong opinion
• You have a great question

Communication and cultural differences

Cross-Cultural Communication Tips

1. Does the culture value relationships or transactions?
2. How direct is the communication style?
3. Is the culture formal or informal?

How to handle an interruption

Why am I being interrupted and who is interrupting me?

Addressing Interruptions

• Discuss one on one
• Disrupt office culture
• Appoint “interruption monitor”
• Brainstorm before meeting
• Ask meeting facilitator to ensure people are heard

How to respond to critical feedback

Know Who To Take Feedback From

• Your boss
• Those you ask

If you ask for feedback, listen to it.  Ignore all other feedback that is provided without your request.

Don’t respond immediately!  Don’t attack once you receive feedback.

“Thank you for the feedback.  I’d love to respond to this, but to do it justice, I want to think about it for a while.”

Prepare for Feedback

• Map out the worst-case scenario
• Draft possible responses

How to communicate as an introvert

Play to your strengths.  

• Share your thoughts in writing before meetings.
• Ask a friend to advocate for you.
• Create talking points for yourself.
• Challenge yourself to participate.
• Meet one on one before bigger meetings.