Join hosts Merv Jersak and Tim Jerome in this episode as they consider the essential communication skills every project leader needs. Through personal anecdotes and practical tips, they highlight the complexities of effective communication within project management. From dissecting a humorous mishap in code interpretation to the significance of cultural nuances in meetings, the hosts share insights into bridging communication gaps. They also offer powerful techniques such as using pauses and cognitive dissonance to enhance engagement. Merv and Tim wrap up with advice on mastering written communication and email etiquette. This episode is packed with actionable advice for new and seasoned project managers seeking to improve their leadership and communication skills.

Main Take-Aways

Stories are powerful teachers. Today’s story lessons are about communication:

miscommunication can happen even when being precise

the power of the pause

cultural differences should be taken into account in your communications

using cognitive dissonance and ice-breakers to foster communication engagement

taking precautions with validating email recipients

Show Notes

Today’s Project Managers Coffee Chat: Leadership Lessons from the Trenches on Project Communication

00:27 Introducing the podcast with a restatement of the importance of communication in leadership.

01:38 Merv begins with a humorous story on miscommunication despite the fact that great care had been exercised in being precise.

04:14 Tim recounts advise he had been given from a mentor on the power of the pause in communication.

07:15 Merv tells of his experiences with cultural differences in meeting etiquette – one of an affable individual who would begin with coffee and cookies versus one of a strict individual who would make being late to a meeting an uncomfortable situation.

11:21 Tim relays advise he received on the use of cognitive dissonance to engage the team in communication.

14:16 Merv explains a fun ice-breaker called “2 truths and a lie”.

15:51 Merv cautions you with an error he made in not double-checking the ‘cc’ line of an email communication.

17:15 Tim agrees and adds that one of his managers would remove all recipients from an email response before adding applicable individuals back in.

18:41 Concluding with a look-ahead to upcoming podcast themes.