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Communication skills
Posted by Chris on 13/03/2009
Communication skills
If you want to improve your management ability, you may wish to master this important communication skill Notice the distinction between1. An answer to a question 2. A response to a question
There is a difference between an “answer” to a question and a “response” to a question.
It is important to notice which one you have been offered.
What painful consequences would befall a manager who continually mistook mere responses to questions as answers to questions?
Imagine that you ask a question, the other person responds, but HE DOES NOT ANSWER.
You NOTICE and you repeat the question. The second time, you get a definitive ANSWER.
What beneficial consequences would you now enjoy?
Generally, do politicians have the reputation for answering questions or merely responding to them?
What is the difference?
An “answer” to a question:
1. Satisfies the requirements of the question.
2. It is logically connected to the question
3. It is an illumination of the issue under analysis
4. It may take the form of a definition.
5. It may take the form of an explanation
6. It may be a simple yes or no.
7. It may differentiate one concept from another or
8. It may explain a relationship.
A “response” does none of these
A response does not answer the question but may
1. Ask a question in return
2. Change the subject
3. Answer the question the other wished you had asked
4. Enquire why you are asking the question
5. Respond with an emotional outburst
6. Deliberately be a mis-interpretation of your question
Management skills assignment
1. Do not allow yourself to continually evade answering questions: If you gain such a reputation, you will be marked down in the minds of others.
2. Listen carefully to others in conversation.
3. Notice how often people respond and do not answer.
4. Practice repeating questions until you get an answer.
5. Gain a reputation as a person who can find the answers.
Visit the Corporate Coach Group website for more information on management training courses.
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