Confidence and Self-Respect Through Conflict

Confidence and Self-Respect Through Conflict

Question: Would you rather go to the dentist for a root canal or go to a friend and confront her with something that bothers you?

If you picked a root canal, you’re not alone. Most people will do anything to avoid conflict and all the accompanying feelings of anger and frustration. On the list of things people love to do, confrontation probably ranks lower than standing in line at the DMV or, yes, even oral surgery.

But conflict doesn’t have to be like that.

Getting Beyond Our Stories at Work

Oh, the Tales We Tell: Getting Beyond Our Stories at Work

Every day, Jack begins his work by telling himself his favorite story: I’m not valued around here. They’re heaping on the work just to see when I’ll quit. I’m sure to be passed over for promotion.

His co-worker, Alissa, has her own favorite story: This company’s president is a demanding control freak who criticizes everything. He shuts me out of every decision but expects me to know everything.

Every day, we tell ourselves enough of these kinds of stories to fill a library: Why my supervisor closed her door today. Why the client rejected my proposal. What my associate meant when he laughed at my question. Why everyone is being so difficult. How I’m such a failure.

Communication

Consider the statistics…  Research has shown that in face to face communication, words account for only 7% of a message.  93% of the communication is non-verbal, that breaks down with 55% of communication being what is “seen” and 38% tone of voice. Do you see any potential for miscommunication?  I do!  And I’ve experienced it as I’m sure you have.

Global Communication Now consider how global changes are affecting communication in business. You’re not just dealing with your business in Georgia, but you might also have technical support sites in India, parts suppliers in Taiwan, and manufacturing plants in Mexico. It’s bad enough when a miscommunication between you and your team means they have to re-work a project, causing another day of work. Now consider a miscommunication between your manufacturing plant and your parts supplier! Poor communication in business is costly!