| What you can do |
How to do it |
| 1 |
Be honest and direct. |
- State your concern from your perspective, for example:
- I have a hard time concentrating when ...
- I can’t meet my deadlines if ...
- It’s hard for me to be positive when ...
|
| 2 |
Listen carefully. |
- Listen to what the other person is saying instead of getting ready to react.
- Avoid interrupting the other person.
- After the other person finishes speaking, rephrase what was said to make sure you understand it.
|
| 3 |
Avoid blaming. |
- Focus on the facts. Finding fault can prevent problem-solving.
|
| 4 |
Stay focused. |
- Discuss particulars; avoid generalizing.
- Avoid getting sidetracked into discussing other problems.
- Keep bringing the conversation back to the concern you’ve stated.
|
| 5 |
Say less. |
- After you state the problem, allow silence until the other person responds.
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