Does it feel like you need to learn another language for decoding what your boss is really saying? Many employees feel they have take CIA sanctioned courses simply to figure out the meaning behind the arcane messages sent by managers. Well, you do not have to invest in code breaking software for decoding your boss. In fact, you can follow a few time-tested tips and avoid the hair-pulling frustration caused by muddled communication from your boss.
Non-Verbal Cues
Ask any attorneys worth their legal salt how they understand witness testimony and the answer invariably lies in non-verbal communication cues. If your boss appears fidgety when addressing you, the message sent probably is not what your boos truly intends to say. You may have to guide your boss down the road of truth by replying with affirming message such as “I understand” and “That makes sense.” Other non-verbal cues to watch include facial expressions, posture, and hand movements. Calm, reasoned discourses confirm the veracity of what you boss is saying, helping you decode your boss.
Ask for Clarification
Non-verbal cues displayed by your boss may be so subtle that not even Perry Mason can solve the communication puzzle. An excellent way for decoding what your boss is saying is asking your boss to put his or her verbal communication into words. Ask your boss to type and print a document that clearly presents information or send an email that delineates what the boss is trying to say via words. Written communication not only does a better job of presenting clear communication, it also provides you with a reference for decoding your boss.
No Distractions
Reduce the potential for miscommunication with your boss by requesting that you speak in private. Workplace distractions diminish the effectiveness of communicating with your boss. Your boss may have to take a phone call or handle an urgent task during the time he or she talks with you. For decoding what your boss is really saying, ask that you meet in a room that does not present any distractions. Employee reviews are excellent opportunities to eliminate distractions and get to the bottom of what your boss is really saying.
Ask the Right Questions
A conversation with your boss should not lead to a one-way dead end street. You help decode what your boss is really saying by asking the right questions. The questions you ask your boss can help you better understand a comprehensive accounting spreadsheet that your boss tries to explain, as well as clarify what your boss wants you to accomplish over the next six months. Questions also should include verification of what your boss has just said.
Workplace communication is a vital component to ensuring a smooth running business. The key to workplace communication often depends on you decoding what your boss is truly saying. Detect non-verbal cues, ask for clarification, eliminate distractions, and ask the right questions, and you should be well on your way to finding out what your boss truly means.
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