Address the unknown with certainty and an insurance partner who will never leave your side. Marsh McLennan Agency understands the impact insurance and workforce programs can have on your organization’s financial well-being. Safeguard your investments and build sustainable profitability with a partner invested in your success. To learn more, find an an agent at MMANorthwest.com/Banks d/b/a in California as Marsh & McLennan Insurance Agency LLC; CA Insurance Lic: 0H18131. Copyright © 2024 Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC. All rights reserved. resilience 2. Create an environment where everyone feels safe sharing their opinions. Encourage every team member to contribute to discussions, but at their own level of comfort. Obviously, pushing introverts to speak up in group contexts might not always be the most effective strategy. Offer support and encouragement where possible. 3. Use clear, unambiguous language. Avoid jargon or expressions that could alienate others. 4. Curiosity is a powerful tool. Tap into yours by asking questions about your colleagues’ experiences. Ask open-ended questions that require longer answers than “yes” or “no.” For example, “Can you tell me how you reached that conclusion?” Dig deeper and encourage wider-ranging discussions. 5. Practice active listening. Let your colleagues speak without interruption but acknowledge the points they are making. Then briefly repeat back to them what you understand from what they shared. Also, be mindful of nonverbal cues. 6. Listen on an emotional level. Beyond words, what are they expressing? How would you feel if you were in their shoes? Acknowledge their feelings. 7. Be open-minded. If you’re surprised by any of their opinions or perspectives, challenge yourself and your preconceptions. Be aware of your own biases. Even if you don’t agree, recognize that what others are feeling matters to them. 8. Share your own experiences. Return the favor; it’s important to make the dialogue mutual. 9. Stay positive and focus on solutions. Don’t dwell on things you disagree about. 10. Celebrate achievements together. What you achieve is a tribute to the different talents and skills within your team. Make a strength out of that, and foster team spirit by celebrating your wins. Whether it’s in person, through emails or over video call, our work life is consumed by communication. So, why not explore the different perspectives in your team? Learning how to communicate effectively on diverse issues helps to build stronger — and more motivated — teams that can fuel even greater workplace success. Community Banker 23
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