Dog training techniques in the workplace?
It’s not that far-fetched
By the editors of Briefings Media Group
If only we could train our co-workers as easily as we train our dogs, what a wonderful world it would be. A well-trained dog will quickly respond to a single-word command. Yet with thousands of words and multiple communication channels at our disposal, convincing our human companions to do as we wish sometimes seems impossible.
Of course communicating with our co-workers is more complex and challenging. But some simple principles apply across the board, like these:
* Words matter less than actions. Imagine telling a dog not to jump on you by patting it on the head as you say in a baby-talk tone “Don’t do that … Nooo, don’t do that sweetums.” Your words will sound like the adults in a Charlie Brown cartoon, and the dog will translate that “Wah wah wah wah” as “Yes, good dog! Do that again!”
In the workplace, that’s akin to telling an employee that something is “important” as you check e-mail and send text messages during the conversation. And saying “Good job” without any enthusiasm may as well be “Wah wah wah wah.”
* Everyone cares about—SQUIRREL! A dog’s natural instincts are to chase squirrels and check pee-mail around trees. After training, though, a dog understands that he’ll be rewarded if he pays attention to his human’s commands instead.
Your co-workers have their own interests too. They care about their careers, their goals, their projects. To hold their attention, you must explain why it will be in their best interest to listen to you.
* People are as different as cats and dogs. Try to train a cat the same way you would a dog and see how far you get. People respond to styles of communication differently too.
For example, Kit is annoyed by Don’s socializing and chatter, and Don thinks that Kit’s abrupt, bottom-line way of communicating is rude. No wonder people can end up fighting like cats and dogs. As often as possible, tailor your style of communicating to fit the person you are speaking to, and you will be much more successful than if you use a one-style-fits-all way of communicating.
Communicating well is complicated, but it is a skill that anyone can master. Join us for The Ultimate Communicator Training Camp Dec. 6-7 in Orlando, Fla. You’ll discover how to communicate effectively, with confidence, diplomacy and tact. (No bacon treats required!) Click here to register or learn more.
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