Lean Quote: Inspiration Through Listening and Effective Communication

On Fridays I will post a Lean related Quote. Throughout our lifetimes many people touch our lives and leave us with words of wisdom. These can both be a source of new learning and also a point to pause and reflect upon lessons we have learned. Within Lean active learning is an important aspect on this journey because without learning we can not improve.

"Sometimes when you need to inspire people, all you have to do is listen. " — Pat Riley, NBA Basketball Coach

Our experiences in life create a set of values and beliefs within us that is unique to each individual. Values are the basis of our beliefs and our beliefs lead us to act. Words are labels for our experiences. Since no two of us will have the same experiences, no two of us will have the same definition for the same word. The Universal Communication Problem is to find a channel that will form a link of understanding between the sender and receiver. Both people will need to work at establishing this link. We can neither prejudge nor make assumptions. Good communication tools can help us find some common ground.

The process of communication involves establishing a link with another person either directly (verbal or non-verbal) or indirectly. There are many strategies that can help us send out information and read feedback effectively.

Basic Communication Principles:

• Communication is an exchange of information 
• Communication is always and only one to one 
• There are two processes when communicating – sending and receiving 
• As a sender, we can use tools and skills to LINK with another person 
• As a receiver, we can use tools and skills to understand what is being conveyed 
• Information can be exchanged directly through words (verbal) or emotions (non-verbal) 
• Information can be exchanged indirectly through posters, signs, videos, e-mail or voice mail 

To be an effective communicator remember The “Be List”.

• Be A Teacher 
• Be Enthusiastic 
• Be Positive 
• Be Consistent 
• Be Demanding but Considerate 
• Be Courteous

 Successful leaders see the larger picture and will share the vision. When we see our role this way, effective communication skills become one of our most important assets.