Constructive communication
Abstract
Communication is a big part of project management. 80\% of project managers' time is spent on communication, which is considered a critical success factor in projects [1]. Project managers communicate with stakeholders such as co-workers, clients, and business partners and these communications are, for example, regarding projects and for making big decisions. These types of communications and when dealing with all kinds of people, conflicts are inevitable [2].
For managing conflicts the right way, the communication has to be constructive and not destructive, as poor communication can make matters worse \cite{bib:Scott}. The majority of conflicts can be looked at as an opportunity for improvement [2]. Project managers that practice and learn to use constructive communication are more likely to transform conflicts into growth or improvement. In addition, they can build more robust and better relationships with their stakeholders and understand them better. Moreover, by following the guidelines on constructive communication, project managers can resolve potential conflicts ahead of time and prevent miscommunication [3].
This article examines the importance of constructive communication, especially in dealing with conflicts during projects. In addition, relevant models and guidelines are provided that project managers can use in their work. It is important for project managers to master and keep practicing constructive communication. However, this type of communication is not just relevant within project management. It is useful for everyone willing to learn how to deal with conflicts constructively [4].
Contents |
What is Constructive Communication
A big part of project managers' day includes communicating with people such as coworkers, clients, and business partners. These communications are, for example, regarding projects and for making big decisions. In a situation like these and when dealing with all kinds of people, conflicts are inevitable. The majority of conflicts can be looked at as an opportunity for improvement [2]. For that to be the case, the communication has to be constructive and not destructive, as poor communication can make matters worse [3]. Project managers that practice and learn to use constructive communication are more likely to transform conflicts into growth or improvement. In addition, they can build more robust and better relationships with their stakeholders and understand them better. Moreover, by following the guidelines on constructive communication, project managers can resolve potential conflicts ahead of time and prevent miscommunication [2].
Models of Constructive Communication
There are different ways to use constructive communication. This section goes over five different models of constructive communication.
Nonviolent Communication
Clean Communication
Cooperative Communication
Centered Communication
Compassionate Listening
Guidelines for Constructive Communication
It can be tricky to use constructive communication when dealing with conflicts. In this section, guidelines will be illustrated in three categories.
Empathy, Intention and Listen
Message Form
Message Meaning
Limitations
There are always some limitations and they will be discussed in this section.
Conclusion
The final chapter is a conclusion.
Annotated bibliography
* Nonviolent and Constructive Communication, Joanie V Connors, 2013 [4]. This paper focuses on the skills of communication and how to use constructive communication when dealing with conflicts.
* Communicating Constructively, Scott Williams, 2002 [3]. This article shows how you can apply constructive communication in various professions.
References
- ↑ J. Geraldi, C. Thuesen, \& J. Oehmen. (2017). Doing Projects - Nordic flavour to managing projects. Danish Standards Foundation. 96.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 A. Benko. (26.06.2018). Constructive Communication Skills in the Workplace. https://softwaretester.careers/constructive-communication-skills-in-the-workplace/. Visited: 09/02/2021.
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