The subtitle to this practical guide by two Colorado consultants delivers on its promise to teach readers how to communicate effectively.
Raines and Ewing start out by celebrating an exemplary connector, Terry Gross, the National Public Radio talk-show host. Gross’s techniques and attitudes are ones we could all benefit from: She listens closely, conveys respect, and allows guests sufficient time to express their thoughts. These same skills are valuable not just for radio interviewers like Gross but are also crucial for working with all kinds of colleagues in the office.
Chapters cover the benefits of connecting, personal connections, and working with diverse groups, even disagreeable ones. The chapter called “Pathways to Connection,” for instance, suggests clarifying your intention before beginning a potentially difficult conversation with a colleague or group. “Knowing what you want to accomplish focuses your attention and guides you in a constructive direction,” the authors advise. Further, you should stay aware of your own reactions, search for common ground, trust your eyes and ears for social cues, and correct for misunderstandings. “Midcourse correction is the rule, not the exception.”
“Learning activities,” or exercises, at the end help readers develop skills in soliciting different points of view, clarifying intentions, and so on. It adds up to a fine, comprehensive guide to bridging differences.