In general, by listening to others and talking about their interests rather than spending the time talking about our own.

Posted by Gecko Rock, 2/8/2007 9:13:00 AM

I agree....it's taking the time to listen. People need to be heard. Whether it's a client, colleague, friend or family....it's building a relationship that's key. As a realtor, I'm self employed but I find people want to work with people that understand their needs.

Posted by Tara, 2/8/2007 11:53:34 AM

Cool Tara is commenting!! woo hoo

While I agree that we have to listen to people - hear them- regarding needs, thougths, desires etc.
I think we as parents, siblings, children and friends have to not only have standards but we have to communicate and adhere to them.

I agree that listening is vital in any relationship but so is communication of what the expectations are. Some people do a good job of communicating what expectations are while others don't so you have to ask... how can any one perform or hope to reach a standard without first knowing what that is?

So I believe improving communication and listening skills helps one get to the place that you are asking about.

Tamara

Posted by Tamara, 2/8/2007 3:51:07 PM

I wanna hear about the psychopaths! Seriously, in my experience, the only people who don't want to do a good job are the ones who are in a job that doesn't fit them.

One thing that I think people forget about, though, is just creating an atmosphere that is comfortable enough to talk about needs and expectations...granted, I work for a non-profit human services agency, but even in the touchy feely atmosphere, there are certain people who create an atmosphere of poor communication. In fact, it may even happen more in a more touchy feely atmosphere...in dog eat dog business, one might fear punishment for constructive criticism...in human services we're all just afraid of hurting each other's feelings by being honest. (Not me, though. Screw 'em if they can't take a joke. :->)

It all sounds so easy...just talking and listening. Hardest damn thing in the world...

Posted by Bella, 2/8/2007 8:04:21 PM

Aw can't a psychopath get some love? We can be quite productive and this personality is excellent for combating the effects of "administratium." Call it a natural defense one develops working for a large company.

For me, a good manager listens, acts as an umbrella when some of the BS rains down from above, backs you when you take an idea forward (even when not popular), doesn't micromanage, and gives you the tools to do your job effectively.

Posted by Pale Rider, 2/9/2007 12:04:12 PM

I have to agree that some see communication as a hard thing to do. For some it is a natural thing to do.

What I personally find hard is working with people that are insecure with themselves and thusly make it difficult to work with them, whether that is in the home environment or the work place.

What I find elating is when presented with this situation and being able to help someone open up and learn to be secure with who they are and confident to put their voice behind that.
For me, family and team members know that I am open to hearing what they have to say and doing what I can to make things better, more productive and partner better with them.

From a family stand point, I was raised in a secure loving environment that always allowed me and my sisters to be who we were and see the example of our parents that allowed us to be better. That was a great way to learn and grow and give me the foundation for how I work with others today.

Easy... not for all unfortunately, but a trait that is worthy of learning... absolutely.

Posted by Tamara, 2/9/2007 2:37:33 PM

Just to clarify my post above....

I in no way think I have this communication thing nailed. I think I am always aware of trying to be the best I can. I do, however, miss the mark and fall short.

I constantly try to improve and that I hope comes through.

Posted by Tamara, 2/9/2007 2:41:32 PM