How to Communicate Effectively
The ABC
A Assert
B Build
C Challenge constructively
How to communicate – Follow this simple ABC
A Assert –make your views known even if they may be controversial.
Be open in your views; make sure people know where you stand.
State your views explicitly and concisely
“I think X is important because … “
“I think that is risky because …”
Be open about feelings
“I feel disappointed because ….“
“I’m really excited about that because… “
Suggest something
“What if we …. “
“Ok, that will work, maybe as a follow up we could….”
B Build- show you have listened and are contributing.
Summarise what has been said so far, then add to it.
Ask a question
“So what we need is ….. How can we make that happen?”
Provide information
“We need to sell X to break even “
“Y are offering something similar “
Show enthusiasm
“So your proposal is …….. I think that’s a great idea!”
“I really like that “
C – Challenge constructively
Select a point and ask for clarification and expansion.
“Why?” “What?”
Ask a question that allows the proposer to expand their views
“How do you think we could achieve that? “
“Why do you believe that will solve the problem? “
Ask a searching question that looks for more detail
“What will be the benefits and risks associated with that? “
“What do you anticipate the timescale will be?”
Broaden the discussion
“What are the alternatives if we don’t run with this “
“Has anyone done this successfully? “