Improve Team Communication with this One Simple Technique

Communication — we all know it’s the key to any successful relationship, even more so in a group setting and during these days of so much virtual teamwork.

Yet, so many of us manage to miscommunicate, which can lead to demotivation and disengagement in the team. And, the kicker? Most of the time, we’re not even aware that we made a communication misstep.

So, here’s a simple yet highly effective way to think about communication. We can break it down into four different types and use the example of hearing that your spouse got a promotion at work to illustrate.

Active Constructive: This is the top-left quadrant of the grid, and it’s where we want to be for effective communication. Essentially, we’re listening attentively to what’s been said and reacting appropriately. In this case, we’re responding enthusiastically and amplifying the experience by asking engaging questions about it.

Passive Constructive: Not as good as active constructive, but still not destructive. This is the bottom-left quadrant of the grid. When we respond with this type of answer, we’re happy for the person but lack enthusiasm, and possibly even downplay the news. Plus, there’s no engagement beyond a simple acknowledgment of what we’ve been told.

Passive Destructive: Okay, now we’re starting to become a Debbie-Downer in the bottom-right quadrant of the grid. When we’re in passive-destructive mode, we’re essentially acknowledging the…