UNDERSTAND YOURSELF AND OTHERS

Seeing People for Who They Are

What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream? Maybe it’s a reliable and dependable vanilla, or something more adventurous, like Rocky Road. Or maybe you’re into a quirky flavor, like… pickle. Just like ice cream flavors, people are unique—including you. Recognizing and appreciating people for who they are will help you to show up as your best.

Follow these steps to get to know others.

  • Ask open-ended questions that encourage sharing thoughts and feelings. For example, instead of "Do you like working on this project?" ask, "What do you find most rewarding about this project?"
  • Actively listen to what the other person is saying. Show you're engaged by making eye contact, nodding, and summarizing what you've heard to ensure understanding.
  • Share personal stories and experiences to help create a sense of connection and build rapport.
  • Find common interests both inside and outside of work. This can lead to deeper conversations and potential bonding experiences.
  • Building a genuine connection takes time. Be patient and respectful of boundaries and avoid making assumptions or judgments.
  • Pay attention to body language and nonverbal cues. This can provide valuable insights into someone's thoughts and feelings.
  • Be yourself! Don't try to be someone you're not. Authenticity fosters trust and deeper connections.
  • Put yourself in the other person's shoes and try to see things from their perspective. This helps build empathy and strengthens relationships.
  • Approach each interaction with curiosity and a willingness to learn. This can lead to unexpected discoveries and deeper connections.
  • Show interest in the other person's life by following up on conversations, checking in regularly, and suggesting ways to connect further.

Getting to know your colleagues will help to deepen relationships and improve your work. And who knows? You might just find that the most unexpected combinations create the sweetest results.

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