Being a better listener involves embracing silence to foster reflection and learning.
Approaching feedback with curiosity and a growth mindset enables productive conversations and personal growth.
Deep dives
Slowing Down and Creating Space for Effective Communication
Slowing down and being aware of our emotions and goals during challenging conversations can improve communication. By creating space and listening with curiosity, we can foster mutual understanding and open the doors to more effective communication. This approach allows us to focus on the data and impact of actions and make specific requests for future interactions, promoting clear and constructive feedback.
Developing a Receptive Mindset for Feedback
Being open to receiving feedback requires adopting a mindset of agency and curiosity. By recognizing feedback as an opportunity for growth and problem-solving, we can approach it with a genuine desire to learn and understand. Embracing this mindset empowers us to be more receptive, engage in productive conversations, and make the most of feedback.
Pace, Space, and Grace: Keys to Successful Communication
Pace, space, and grace are essential elements in effective communication. Slowing down and considering different perspectives helps us navigate the fast-paced nature of communication in today's world. Creating space for new possibilities and giving each other grace allows for deeper connections and collaboration. By embracing these principles, we can enhance communication, strengthen relationships, and achieve more impactful outcomes.
Being a better listener has a lot to do with silence, says Collins Dobbs, a lecturer in management at Stanford Graduate School of Business. “A lot of people are uncomfortable with the smallest modicum of silence, but learning often happens when we create distance for useful reflection.”
In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Dobbs talks with host Matt Abrahams about the importance of “space, pace, and grace” when you’re receiving others’ feedback and handling the emotions that come out during tough discussions.
“There’s often a lot more focus on the skill set on delivering emotion than receiving emotion, but if the receiver of emotion can put themselves in a place of curiosity, agency, and openness … it opens up a whole new world of possibilities.”
Dobbs is an executive coach and teaches several courses, including Interpersonal Dynamics and Leadership Labs.