Lessons in IT Transformation: Technology Expert to Business Leader

How Should I Communicate with Them?

Once individuals buy into the need to communicate with others, they often have a question as to the best approach to communicating. This is really two questions in one! The first question is whether to communicate with people on a one-to-one basis or as part of a larger group. The second question is about the best vehicle for communication—conversation, presentation, or the written word. Let's reflect on both of these questions.

Individual versus Group Communication

The decision regarding whether to communicate on an individual basis versus en masse has several variables. There are clearly times when speaking to someone face to face on a one-on-one basis is the right answer. Other times, it is more effective to deliver a message to a larger group. Here are some questions that will help you kickstart your thinking to help determine which approach is best:

• Am I hoping to engage the person in dialogue or simply deliver a monologue?
• How well do I know the person?
• What level of relationship do I have with the individual?
• Is there an existing level of trust?
• Will the group dynamic stimulate interaction and feedback, or will it stifle interaction?
• If I am hoping for feedback, will the key individuals feel more comfortable providing it in private or will they have more comfort sharing their thoughts in a group setting?
• How many people do I need to speak with, in what period of time, and where are they located?

In general, I have found that if you are ...