Communication is key
Communication is key to success in any aspect of life. Our relationships and the way we communicate with others help us make the critical connections we need to succeed in the workplace and build a satisfying personal life.
While it’s easy to assume you’ve mastered the art of communication. The truth is that most people are not that great at it. At the root of almost every problem is our inability to communicate effectively and understand one another. In the modern workplace, these communication issues often arise between people of all genders. These can cause tension and conflict, or even discourage women from advancing in their careers. Let’s take a look at some of the ways men can work toward better communication with all the women they meet.
1. Men Can Learn How to Better Communicate with Women
Men often don’t understand how their words affect the women in their lives. Whether it’s in a relationship or the office, men must learn to understand women. They must know how to communicate effectively so they can empower women, rather than make them feel inferior.
We need to close the gender gap in the workforce, and these inequalities can be improved when men try to understand how women operate. Learning to connect better with women in every aspect of life will not only help empower women in the workplace but it will also help men become more effective and build stronger relationships. The first step in this learning process is to remember that women are humans. Men who want to become better communicators need to start by listening and asking questions. Learn what works for women, rather than making assumptions.
2. Let Go of Your Ego – Women Can Excel Over Men
Many men feel threatened when women start to excel in the workplace. Society is facing issues with gender discrimination and inequality, and it’s up to us to resolve these problems together. Men need to step up and be willing to share the spotlight with women. They need to confront their ego and acknowledge that women may have better skills and wisdom.
Data shows that women can excel in business when they have the opportunity to do so. The numbers show that women-led companies outperform those led by men, generating twice the value for investors and 60% more. Although men can be very successful, they are not always right, and thinking they have more power and skill can lead to conflicts and bias against women. Men need to show up in more mature and intelligent ways, being conscious of when their egos try to get in the way.
3. People Of All Genders Communicate Differently
To communicate effectively with women, men need to understand the differences in how they communicate. Women tend to focus on building rapport and connection during conversations, while men prefer to get right to business and focus on tasks. There are numerous differences in body language, goals, and other communication styles that distinguish people of different genders. Men should take the time to understand these differences to communicate effectively, but should also be careful not to stereotype—everyone is a little bit different.
4. Mediation Skills Can Help People Communicate Effectively
People generally dislike conflict, and the inequalities and differing communication styles can naturally lead to conflict. Instead of avoiding conflict, people of all genders can enhance their mediation skills to facilitate effective problem-solving and improve communication. Although mediation is a conflict resolution process that involves a neutral third party, these skills can also be helpful when two people are trying to work out an agreement on their own.
5. Building Communication Skills Takes Time and Maturity
People need to work together to bridge the gender gap. Learning to communicate effectively is a process that takes time and maturity. However, it’s a worthwhile effort. It helps people to feel respected and reach their full potential while creating more value within an organisation. Who doesn’t love a win-win?
