How to have Open & Honest Conversation with Colleagues

When asked to describe the virtues that make a great team player, Patrick Lencioni told Forbes that an employee needs to be three things: humble, hungry, and […]

When asked to describe the virtues that make a great team player, Patrick Lencioni told Forbes that an employee needs to be three things: humble, hungry, and smart. He then went on to describe these attributes as:

  • Humble – having little ego, and focusing more on teammates
  • Hungry – having a strong work ethic, determined to get things done and contribute in any way possible
  • Smart – understanding the group dynamics, how to say and do things, and have a positive outcome

The smart element brings me to the role of emotional intelligence in interpersonal and intrapersonal relationships. It’s the secret to open and honest conversation with colleagues.

Emotional Intelligence: the key to unlock team capability

The higher your emotional intelligence, the more confident and adaptable you are likely to be. Within a team-based organization, your emotional intelligence is a determinant of your value to the team. It dictates your ability to communicate with openness and honesty, and this encourages others to do likewise. It is this that leads to complete trust and the deeper intrapersonal relationships that drive team coherence and success.

What emotional intelligence traits do you possess?

The traits of an emotionally intelligent person include:

  • You are a people person, who enjoys discovering what makes others tick. You’re empathetic, curious about strangers, and are adaptable in different company.
  • You understand your own strengths and weaknesses, and use this knowledge for the benefit of the team. This understanding is evidenced by your self-confidence.
  • You understand what upsets you, and this means you are better able to control your own emotions and make decisions objectively.
  • You’re a good listener, which avoids making assumptions and creating communication havoc that deteriorates relationships.
  • You’re true to your values, and these include acting ethically and caring about others.
  • You collaborate willingly, you are more mindful, and offer to help others.
  • You deal with setbacks well, not allowing them to distract you from achieving your final goal, but rather using them as lessons to inform self-improvement.
  • You trust your intuition, being a good judge of character and reader of non-verbal communication. Your gut instinct is rarely wrong.
  • Increase your ability to form transformational interpersonal and intrapersonal relationships

Communicating in an open and honest manner is key to developing a greater understanding, more empathy, and an improved awareness of others. Your relationships will become deeper and more trusting. The key to achieving this level of interpersonal and intrapersonal relationships is to work to improve your emotional intelligence.

Contact Primeast today to discover how an Emotional Intelligence course will develop and embed effective personal skills in the workplace, for leaders, managers and employees, by improving your:

  • Self-awareness
    Self-regulation
    Social awareness
    Relationship management

More Insights