In this episode of ICommunicate, Company Founder Mark Altman discusses what traits we tend to associate with “difficult” people, as well as how we can approach these individuals with a lens of curiosity in order to suspend judgment, collaborate on agreeable behaviors, and create an inviting workplace culture.

Segment 1:

As a result of the pandemic, we’ve all developed our fair share of habits that we know to be counterproductive and inefficient. At what point do we consider our colleagues in the workplace to be “difficult,” and what stigmas surround that? How can we uncover the root causes of these behaviors and iron them out in a manner that isn’t accusatory?

Segment 2:

Complaints are often spurred by unfulfilled expectations -- but how often are those expectations clearly defined on all ends? How does our learned social etiquette alter our perspective on non-stated expectations? How can those expectations be helpful or harmful on a day-to-day basis, and how can we ensure that our team is aware of the standards that they are being held to?

Segment 3:

Leaders -- how often do you consider the qualities that make an effective coach? How do small details in communication, such as tone, word choice, and body language, make a difference in the way you are able to influence people when trying to change their habits? What is the difference between internal and external curiosity, and how can distinguishing the two help us to relay expectations in a clear and productive way?

Segment 4:

We don’t take enough time to consider the many components of a conversation and how to effectively control the flow of a dialogue. How can we approach conversations around habit or behavior change without coming across as judgmental or accusatory? How can we discern somebody’s motivation from their fear, and how do we educate them on the importance of that difference?