text:
This action might not be possible to undo. Are you sure you want to continue?
for Highway and Public Works Officials
Cornell Local Roads Program
Effective Communication Skills
for Highway and Public Works Officials
Toni Rosenbaum
Cornell Local Roads Program
416 Riley-Robb Hall Ithaca, New York 14853-5701 Tel: 607-255-8033 Fax: 607-255-4080 Email: email@example.com Web site: www.clrp.cornell.edu
September 2005 CLRP No. 05-8
their local governing boards. or county roads. The LTAP Center provides training and technical assistance to highway and public works officials throughout New York State. or public works person in charge of constructing and maintaining village. and how a good boss communicates with employees. and Road Supervisor. This workbook and the one-day training workshop include topics about basic communication skills and tools for effective communication. Commissioner of Public Works. road. We will use the term highway official to mean the primary highway. In New York State. the New York State Department of Transportation. town. primarily intended for highway and other public works officials. Cornell Local Roads Program i . and Cornell University. highway officials are elected and appointed and have different titles. These are interpersonal skills that will help you in your personal and professional interactions with people. including Highway Superintendent. and each other.Preface We prepared this workbook to accompany a training course on effective communication. The Cornell Local Roads Program is funded by the Federal Highway Administration's Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP). how to develop and use good telephone habits to ensure effective communication with your public. town board. We will use the term governing board or board to refer to the county legislature. how to use those tools to communicate successfully in specific situations. street. Highway Manager. Its purpose is to provide highway officials some basic guidelines for talking with and getting along effectively with the public. or village trustees. how to control anger when dealing with irate citizens.
.....................................................................19 Memos..................................................1 Key elements in communication.............................................................................................................................25 Behavior.......32 Communication in the Workplace ....................... letters.......................................................................................................................................Table of Contents 1 Introduction...............................................5 Speaking skills ..........8 Conflict.........................................41 The Ten Commandments of Political Engineering.......................................................................... visible........................40 Communication with Your Governing Board...............26 Communication with the Public..........what to say and how to say it ........................................................................................................30 Complaints .................................................................................................................................................................26 Attitude .................................31 Summary .........................................................................................................................33 Supervisors...........................................................................................................................................................................43 Seek training ........................................................................................4 Oral Communication......................................................................................................................19 Faxes ........................................... informed.......................43 Be available............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................22 Nonverbal Communication..... reports ....................44 2 3 4 5 6 7 ii Cornell Local Roads Program ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................43 Report your accomplishments................................................................21 Web sites.......................2 How we get and use information ....................................................... notes.........................................................................................15 Written Communication.................. truthful ................................................................... anger...........5 Listening skills ...1 Definition of communication....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... criticism......................................................................................................................................................................................3 Applications of communication skills .......................................................................29 Public relations and how to use it ......................10 Telephone skills ......................................................41 Speak the same language ................................42 Politics............................................3 Nonverbal communication........................................................................................................21 Email ...............25 Space ..................................25 Body language .29 Customer service.........................................................................................................38 Summary ..............................................................................................................1 Communication tools ......................33 Employees.....
...............................................................................50 Sample Road Work Notice .48 Sample Inquiry/Complaint Form ...49 Fax Cover Form ............................................................................................................52 Cornell Local Roads Program iii .......................................................................51 Sample Press Release........................................................................................................................................................................................Appendix A Appendix B Appendix C Appendix D Appendix E Appendix F Appendix G Publication Resources............46 Videotape & DVD Resources....................................................45 Internet Resources..............................
the public. We use them at home with our families. You have earned credibility with your employees. your board members. you need to know who your AUDIENCE is. People send us messages in every interpersonal communication encounter. and your fellow workers. which we will refer to throughout our discussion of interpersonal communication. Others respect or reject us based on our interpersonal communication skills. personal and business. the media.1 – Introduction ___________________________________________ Everyone uses interpersonal communication skills. in the workplace with our bosses and coworkers. They are: • • • You Your audience Your message YOU bring professional experience and education and training to the communication process. signs. then you can talk Cornell Local Roads Program 1 . and on the telephone when we order pizza. on our computers when we answer email. or behavior KEY ELEMENTS IN COMMUNICATION There are three key elements in the communication process. If your audience is a highway crew. Interpersonal communication applies to all of our relationships. In order to be an effective communicator. other body language. and physical space). This manual is intended to help you improve your interpersonal communication skills and develop new skills to become a more effective communicator. In simple terms communication is: • • • Information transmitted A verbal or nonverbal message A process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols. Those messages can be explicit (verbal comments) or implicit (nonverbal facial expressions. DEFINITION OF COMMUNICATION Communication can be defined in many ways.
most of us can recall learning to read 2 Cornell Local Roads Program . more effective communicator. early enough that it is difficult to remember the process. you must want to improve your communication skills. when. The same principle applies to your message in the process of interpersonal communication. and recognize their importance in the communication process. At an early age we begin to learn to speak. If your audience is the public or your board members. However. you need to switch from transportation jargon to "plain English. you risk their losing interest. where. what. messages should contain most of these elements: • • • • • • Who What When Where Why How COMMUNICATION TOOLS There are four basic communication tools: • • • • Listening Speaking Reading Writing All four of these basic tools can be learned and improved. The MESSAGE element is equally important. A well-written story should contain the who. and pavement deflection. ten people. it will not hold our attention. alligator cracks." The principles of effective interpersonal communication are the same whether your "audience" is one person. whether spoken or unspoken. Next. why. when. you must practice good skills to become a better. or one thousand. Then. and how of your message. what. If you do not let your audience know quickly the who. What do you want to say? What is the best way to communicate the message? There is a basic rule used by journalists for writing a newspaper story that can help you focus your message. where. you must understand them. If it does not. and tuning out.Effective Communication Skills effectively about graders. being inattentive. Therefore. rutting. why. and how of the story in the first paragraph or two. you need to learn some new skills. First. Finally.
This is particularly true when you think that someone is saying one thing and showing body language that tells a different story. These are skills we learn from parents and teachers. Nonverbal cues are often neglected during interpersonal communication. HOW WE GET AND USE INFORMATION How much information we retain in the communication process depends on many factors. Yet. Show me and I might remember. We will explore listening skills in Chapter 2. listening is a skill we are not taught. We will explore them in Chapter 4. Cornell Local Roads Program 3 . written communication can be recalled word for word. We will explore these skills in Chapter 3. So. and speaking. Whether you write a letter. NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION Nonverbal messages are unspoken and more difficult to interpret than verbal messages. a memo.Introduction and write. listening is the most important communication skill we can develop. but are just as important. we retain information at these rates: 10 percent of what we read 20 percent of what we hear 30 percent of what we see 50 percent of what we see and hear 70 percent of what we see and discuss 90 percent of what we do Another way to think about how we retain information is this adage: Tell me and I will probably forget. Do we remember most of what we read? Most of what we hear? Do we learn more if someone shows us? Typically. A type of unspoken communication is writing. reading. Involve me and I will learn. Probably. Spoken communication is often misquoted and misremembered. unlike writing. think carefully about written communication. We spend most of our communication time listening. It is important for each of us to recognize how we learn best. Writing lasts a long time. or an email message.1 . Communication in writing is powerful and lasting.
Take a big step. Change involves risk. and how to improve them. Communication skills CAN be learned.Effective Communication Skills APPLICATIONS OF COMMUNICATION SKILLS In Chapters 1 through 4 this manual will concentrate on basic communication skills. you cannot cross a chasm in two small jumps. and governing boards. how to identify them. to practice it. to give yourself a chance to improve. the workplace. It takes one to three months to establish a new habit. 4 Cornell Local Roads Program . Be brave! Make the commitment to try one new communication skill. In Chapters 5 through 7 discussion will involve applying these skills to dealing with the public.
Consider these two examples. At home our family or chores demand attention. Listening must be learned." [what is said] Wife: "Did you mean we should leave earlier than 5:00?" [clarifying question] Husband: "No. There is much that competes for and distracts our attention. but not good listening skills. Trying to understand the difference between what is said and what is heard can be frustrating. Why We Don't Listen Well We are busy people. and mean what you say! We have all heard that from time to time. doesn't mean you should." [what is said] Mom: "Just because all your friends are. and we can learn how to be good listeners. we need to understand what the barriers are to good listening skills. AND TIPS Say what you mean. Or we may arrive at work with a full agenda in our heads. Cornell Local Roads Program 5 . Each of us sees the world in a unique way. Then." [what was meant] Listening is really where all good communication begins. IMPROVEMENTS. Most people are born with good hearing. and we usually assume that everyone sees it the same way we do. and we never are.2 – Oral Communication _______________________________________________ LISTENING SKILLS: BARRIERS. we can identify ways to improve those skills. At the end of the day we leave work full of goals for the next day. only to learn that our priorities have been rearranged for us." [what is heard] Teenager: "Why can't I stay out later?" [what was meant] Mom: "How late do you want to stay out?" [clarifying question] Teenager: "At least until 11:30. Misunderstanding what another person is saying is one of the biggest obstacles to communication. First. Listening is a mental process requiring effort. both at work and at home. but you always say you'll be ready on time. and arrive home unable to turn off the ideas." [what was meant] Teenager: "All my friends are allowed to stay out late. And so the cycle goes. Then I won't be the first one leaving the party. Husband: "I don't want to be late again. We may arrive at work in the morning worried about an ill child at home.
. you said. you're saying that. . how) Listen for ideas. when. You'll probably recognize that most of them apply to you at one time or another. Verify: "So. Here are some ways to listen better whether in a large group or one-to-one.?" "Have you really spent." Question: "What do you mean when you say. . try these exercises: • • • Be patient for the entire message Be aware of speech cues (who." "If I understand correctly. Practice these for a week or two and you will soon realize that they work. but they take practice to achieve results. In a large group situation. goals help us remember facts) Try these guidelines when talking with someone on the telephone or faceto-face. . where. reasons. not just facts (stories.?" 6 Cornell Local Roads Program . and jump to conclusions We are distracted and allow our minds to wander We lose patience. • • • • • We can think faster than a speaker can talk. . why. and decide we are not interested We overreact to what's said and respond emotionally We interrupt Other barriers include use of "absolutes" and "limits": • • Thinking or speaking absolutes: "It will never work" "We always do it that way" Setting limits: "We tried it that way once!" How to Be a Better Listener There are some simple steps to becoming a better listener. what. . .Effective Communication Skills Barriers to Effective Listening Here are some barriers to effective listening. . such as a lecture or training session.
then practice asking questions to clarify what you hear. Their first need is simply to share the feelings and to have someone listen. You may give some non-verbal cues that you are hearing. right" Silence: This allows you to give your undivided attention to the other person. "hmmm" or "oh. smiling. Avoid trying to implement all three tips at the same time. Try one of them for about three months. If you are a good list taker already. Remember: we listen more than any other human activity except breathing! Cornell Local Roads Program 7 . either positive or negative. opening or closing your eyes. Success with one new habit will encourage you to try others. Here are three tips to help you increase your ability to listen by 50 percent: • • • Look at the speaker Ask questions Take notes (benefit = 15 percent) (benefit = 15 percent) (benefit = 20 percent) Improvement occurs only if you practice these good listening skills.2 – Oral Communication Acknowledge: Look at the speaker and nod Occasionally say. It takes at least that long to create a new habit. Listening is a skill that we learn. such as nodding your head. Hearing is natural. This method is especially useful when people come to you with strong feelings. Encourage: "Tell me more" "Would you like to talk about it?" "Want to have lunch and talk?" Tips It is estimated that we use only about 25 percent of our listening capacity.
Part of developing good listening skills is learning how to ask questions to verify messages and to clarify understanding." Here are some examples: How did the truck break down? How can we provide you better service? How are you feeling today? Another questioning technique is called the one-point solution. and cannot be answered by a simple "yes" or "no. you can use several words. Some are designed to clarify the message you are receiving. Here are some examples: Did the truck break down? Can we provide you with more information? Are you feeling ill today? Open-ended questions are designed to get more information. such as "one" or "best" or "top. There are many ways to ask questions." They all have the same characteristics. The characteristics of the "one-point solution" are the following: • • • • Identifies an urgent concern Focuses on one issue at a time Forces a choice Leads to a specific solution When using the "one-point solution" to ask a question. and can be answered with a "yes" or "no" response. Here are some examples of "one-point solution" questions: What is the one thing we can do to increase our safety effectiveness on the job? What is our top priority in the shop this week? When is the best time to conduct safety training? 8 Cornell Local Roads Program . Others are designed to get more information. Close-ended questions are designed to clarify.Effective Communication Skills SPEAKING SKILLS: WHAT TO SAY AND HOW TO SAY IT Asking Questions Asking questions is part of being both a good listener and an effective speaker.
We should avoid making gender assumptions. The classic example is: When did you stop beating your kids? The question presumes that you beat your kids! Here are some other examples: Don't you think we should call the boss before we load the next truck? (obviously." Historical documents use masculine nouns to mean all people. as in: Question – "May I speak to the doctor?" Answer – "She's not here until later. . Since the 1960s women have taken places of increased influence and responsibility in the workplace." Pronouns are a part of speech that substitutes for nouns. . the person asking the question thinks you should call. I meant the doctor. The response expected is presumed within the question. For example. Masculine pronouns traditionally have been used in writing and speaking when we do not know the gender of someone or we mean both men and women.S. government. The last two presidents of Ireland were women. and "loaded" the expected response into the question) Why don't you stop taking home tools from the shop? (presumes that you are the one taking the tools) Gender-neutral Language The English language uses masculine nouns and adjectives when speaking in a general way about people." Cornell Local Roads Program 9 .2 – Oral Communication We'll see how the "one-point solution" can help resolve conflict and disagreement later in this chapter. Both India and Great Britain have elected women as their leaders. For example. For example. A type of question to avoid is the "loaded" question. "he" for David and "she" for Laura." Reply – "No. It is no longer safe nor prudent to assume that a company's CEO or a highway official is a man. This means that the person asking the question "loads" the expected answer into the question. Consider that more than half of those accepted into veterinary colleges in the U. in Lincoln's Gettysburg Address: "Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth upon this nation. are women. "Man is a curious creature. and the world.
Whenever two or more human beings are involved in communication there is potential for misunderstanding. use: "Drivers should slow their cars when approaching a work zone. This will avoid creating hostility before you can get your message across. as in: "A driver should slow his/her car when approaching a work zone. In the end." Ask yourself if you would say. ANGER Dealing with Conflict Every human being experiences conflict. Allow the other person a way out 10 Cornell Local Roads Program . like these: Mail carrier instead of mailman Police officer instead of policeman Firefighter instead of fireman Person or individual instead of man Refer to women subjects by their complete names. Here are a few ways to deal with gender differences: Avoid the he/she trap by using plurals or the second person.Effective Communication Skills Avoid using common stereotypes. we should consider what is respectful as well as the equality of the sexes. CONFLICT. It is a factor of human interaction. Listen carefully to determine the nature of the conflict 2. "male architect." Using gender-neutral language in your speech and in your writing is a habit you can acquire. CRITICISM." Use gender-neutral nouns. Identify areas of agreement 3. as you do men. There are three basic ways to deal effectively in conflict situations: 1." Instead. such as "female architect. such as: Ronald Reagan and Nancy Reagan instead of Reagan and Nancy. and hence." OR – "You should slow your car when approaching a work zone. conflict. How we handle conflict is key to our own well-being and to developing and maintaining good relationships.
This "brainstorming" technique provides the basis for negotiating. Ask yourself these questions. If we determine that the conflict could be negotiated. Negotiating a resolution to conflict need not be an "either/or" situation. then it will be useful to list some options toward resolution. whether in your personal relationships or in business settings. List them all. Other obstacles to resolution may include the following: • • • • Judging a problem too quickly Searching for a single answer. even the ones you really do not want. Keep these key points in mind: • • • Separate people from the problem Focus on interests. If we do not confront the problem soon after identifying conflict.2 – Oral Communication Obstacles to Resolving Conflict Sometimes we create barriers to resolving conflict effectively. and you find out what the other person can concede. is to simply deal with it. From this point you decide what you can give up. the issues may become more difficult to resolve. not mine" How to Overcome Obstacles Often we create obstacles to resolving conflict when the solutions are simple. Often "crazy" ideas lead to acceptable ones. not positions Strive for mutual gain Cornell Local Roads Program 11 . as you move toward resolution: • • • Is it worth fighting over? Can it be negotiated? Do I want to win the argument more than win a relationship? The best approach to resolving conflict. and believing ours is the best Assumption of either/or (either it's my way or not at all) Deciding that "the problem is theirs. Be creative and invent options that seem unusual. Both parties in the conflict can win something if there is real effort to resolve the problem. Avoiding resolution will only escalate misunderstanding and may promote anger. and we are willing to do so.
when. why. "What is the one thing that will make you change your mind?" If you only get one response it is usually something specific to use as the basis for negotiating a solution. what. To use the one-point solution just keep the number "one" in mind when asking questions. your behavior is in your control. Once we realize that we have control over only our own behavior. or concerned individual. except by changing your own actions toward that individual. You cannot control another's behavior.Effective Communication Skills Negotiation. "What is it you really want?" and asking for a specific response like. Persuasion involves using information to convince others that there is more than one way to look at an issue. "It's their problem. Here are some examples: 12 Cornell Local Roads Program . where. Remember the six W's in the communication process? They come in handy now. This technique involves getting feedback in the communication process. Mediation usually introduces a third party to the conflict in an effort to resolve problems. and how. Agreement or at least presentation of information can lead to discovering ways to persuade individuals involved in conflict. unhappy. we have taken the first step in resolving conflict. One that is easy to learn and use is the "one-point" solution. we actually are the distressed party in the conflict. There are a variety of negotiation solutions to conflict. Remember. There are at least three tools to use to effect behavior change: • • • Negotiation: Persuasion: Mediation: Arranging or managing through discussion or compromise To move by argument to a new position or belief Intervening in conflict with intent to resolve through discussion All three tools require you to present information in the form of facts. The technique is offered in the book. The one-point solution is the difference between asking for general feedback like." In the meantime. Persuasion. Human nature often causes us to assume it is "the other person. Information involves identifying who. and involves open-ended questions. which we discussed earlier in this chapter. Power Tools: 33 Management Inventions You Can Use Today. Mediation The starting point for negotiating in conflict situations is to realize who is the distressed." We say to ourselves.
and can embarrass people unnecessarily. try to take responsibility if it is yours to have. Here are two examples: Cornell Local Roads Program 13 . If we set out to compare the worth of one person compared to another. If you need to offer a reprimand to someone. Use phrases that foster teamwork and offer suggestions for improvement." It is easy to understand how the word generates a negative meaning. do not store up criticism and deliver it all at once. Is that not why we use the phrase "constructive criticism" to mean positive feedback? If you receive criticism. the primary definition of criticism is "the act of making judgments and the analysis of qualities and evaluation of comparative worth. by definition one must look better and one worse than the other. avoid doing so publicly. Yet.2 – Oral Communication What is one thing I could change in my behavior? What one training program could I attend to help me the most? What is one question I should ask that I haven't yet? What is one new service we could offer to put us ahead of competitors? What is one thing you think we need to do to work together better? Tips for Resolving Conflict Here are some tips for resolving conflict: • • • • • Seek agreement or common ground Refuse to argue Seek commitment and action to change Plot the follow up Deliver on promises Criticism When we hear the word "criticism" we usually think of an unfavorable judgment. Avoid using others as good examples because this compares one person to another. Ask yourself if there is anything that you have done to deserve the criticism. On the other hand. not merely blame. Choose the teachable moment and offer a one-point solution.
When you plowed the drifting snow. When and How to Criticize • • • • Don't "store" reprimands Use the "teachable" moment Criticize privately Avoid using others as a "good" example Tips for Effective Criticism Here are some tips for developing your style of effective criticism: • • • • • • Direct your criticism at behavior. Blame Bill. the report you prepared for my meeting needs a list of alternatives. I can't use it at the meeting now. the report you prepared was incomplete. not. Let's go over and take a look together. we just got some calls about the four corners intersection. not the person Say something positive Identify behavior that can be fixed or changed Avoid use of the word "you" Avoid negative words like "no. never. shouldn't" Offer specific ways to make changes in behavior (doable action) 14 Cornell Local Roads Program . you must have blocked the visibility there. I may not have been clear about my objectives. You should have been more careful.Effective Communication Skills Blame Carol. Constructive Criticism Carol. You should have known I wanted a clear list of alternatives. Perhaps I can give you a pointer. Here's one example of how we've done it before. The first time I did that job it was tricky. Constructive Criticism Bill. we just got some calls about the four corners intersection having poor visibility.
the more we will succeed. By the year 2000 only two and a half percent of households in the U. don't be angry") Do not yell or lecture angry people (it disrespects their points of view) Be responsive by verifying the person's message Be specific about what you are going to do to help Allow angry people a way out regardless of what they say TELEPHONE SKILLS Often the first impression that people get of public officials is on the telephone. Just as with practicing good listening skills. It is a human characteristic.S. and train them to respond to telephone calls in a manner that reflects a positive image. You should establish a procedure. It is easy to respond to anger with more anger. But. staff. Anger can be healthy if we use it to help us understand our reactions to situations. Think about how you want your business.2 – Oral Communication Controlling Anger From time to time we all become angry. Suppressing anger or denying it can cause stress and physical harm. and yourself to sound when someone calls. we learn anger. Once we understand how to deal with our own anger. Yet we may treat telephone conversations casually. it should come as no surprise that we can learn to control it. we are not born angry. did not have telephones. Public officials often must deal with angry callers or citizens at public meetings. office. "Now. There are ways you can improve your first impressions with the public. the more we practice ways to control it. we can practice controlling anger. we can use that understanding to help us deal with anger in others. inform staff. We take for granted that everyone knows how to use a telephone. Therefore. Cornell Local Roads Program 15 . Although we may not always successfully control our anger. However you should not assume that everyone you hire knows how to answer your office telephone projecting the image you desire. Tips Here are some tips to help you deal with angry people: • • • • • • • Practice good listening skills (remain silent if necessary) Avoid interruption Acknowledge anger (do not tell an angry person.
Effective Communication Skills Effective telephone answering procedure should involve a standard threepart greeting: 1. you can use the one we include in Appendix D. Identity of organization (Town of Eden Highway Department – Police Department) 3. what do you want to happen to calls and callers? You also need a process for recording. If there are times when nobody is available to answer your office phone. A phone answering machine is a useful tool. Personal touch (Rachel speaking – Superintendent Mills here – This is Kevin) Once you have a procedure. Make sure your outgoing greeting message is clear. Standard phone logs are available at most office supply stores. responding to. Thanks for calling. We're not here now. and a brief message. then call your office to listen to it. At the least. Voice Mail Whether you use a telephone answering machine or have a message system within your municipality. It is much better to offer callers the alternative of leaving a message than listening to an unanswered ringing telephone. the time of the call." Record your message. Please leave your name. it is a useful tool. they often forget. Invest a little more to get a digital machine so the time of calls is recorded automatically. Opening introduction (Hello – Good morning – Good afternoon) 2. and costs little compared to the ill will created by an endlessly ringing telephone. phone number. Or. Make sure it is clearly heard and reflects what you want to say. 16 Cornell Local Roads Program . Despite asking callers to report the time. voice mail is handy. and a few notes about the conversation. address. everyone responsible for answering your phones should record the caller's name. and following up on calls. short. and accurate. Here is one suggestion: "You have reached the Middleburg Town Hall. phone number.
. • • • Greeting (hello. This will help the respondent to prepare for the return call. Summary When using spoken language. phone number Brief message When you leave messages for others. Cornell Local Roads Program 17 . time of call Name. remember these V A L U E tips: • • • • • Verify what is being said Acknowledge feelings Listen "actively" Use simple language Eliminate negative words Tip Smile while answering the telephone. offer a call-back time and the subject of your call. It "shows" in your voice. . hi) Identity (you've reached.) Message: Day.2 – Oral Communication A simple message contains the following elements.
Effective Communication Skills 18 Cornell Local Roads Program .
Avoid the jargon that is second nature to you in your job. Streamline your style. The point is to use language that is natural to us. and Web pages. written communication has meant letters and memos. press release. but which is a foreign language to others. Here are some basics that will help you in whatever writing task you have. This principle relates to one of the key elements in the communication process. But. After you write a letter. or set of instructions for your employees. REPORTS No matter what your job. look critically at unnecessary words and phrases. most of us are not professional orators. LETTERS. masterful. and persuasive. Cornell Local Roads Program 19 . When one or two words can substitute for five or six. • • • Keep writing simple Keep writing positive Keep writing accurate Talk the reader's language. You will want to avoid some common pitfalls when you have to write a letter. you can shorten wordy phrases and keep writing simple. or instructions for a procedure. NOTES. Avoid wordiness. you will find the need to write at one time or another. Yet it is one of the most memorable speeches of all time. explain it to your reader. perhaps even casual notes written on a greeting card. Then it will seem natural to others.3 – Written Communication _______________________________________________ Traditionally. It is not difficult. MEMOS. memo. In recent years written communication has been extended to include faxes. Often. For example: Instead of writing: We made a decision… With reference to… Cooperate together… Write: We decided… Concerning… Cooperate… Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address is powerful. budget report. do it. If you need to use technical language. Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address contains ten sentences and was spoken in less than three minutes. email. knowing your audience.
ask someone to proofread your letters. Ask a secretary.Effective Communication Skills You can keep writing positive by avoiding negative words and phrases. If you do not know who to address a complaint or inquiry to. a salutation such as. When all else fails. "Very truly yours" is less common now and a bit old-fashioned. Good grammar. Whether you are a good speller or have forgotten more grammar than you remember. Make sure that you include the date in your letter. Look at these examples: Negative: We can't issue the permit until you complete the application. memos." The best approach is to call and find out the name of someone to address your letter to. but is acceptable. there are some basic formats acceptable to almost everyone. Dear Customer Service Representative or Dear General Motors. spouse. It will help you remember to follow up if you do not receive a response when you expect it. Include the date on all correspondence. schedules. Even the best writers have editors who check their work. correct spelling. can work. It can defend you if your records ever become subject to public scrutiny. Try these tips to achieve accuracy and clarity in writing: • • • • • • • • • 20 Use short words (fewer than 3 syllables) Use short sentences (fewer than 15 words) Use short paragraphs (fewer than 5 lines) Be direct and positive Use a dictionary to verify spelling Use spell-check on the computer Ask someone to proofread your writing Mark your own common spelling errors in your dictionary End with "thanks" Cornell Local Roads Program . and other writing. Drivers won't be able to use Main Street during the paving project. However. even your file notes. Positive: We can issue the permit when you complete the application Drivers will use the short detour during the Main Street paving project. avoid using "Dear Sir" or "Dear Madam. Accuracy shows you care about your image and that you respect your audience. To end your letter. use either "Sincerely yours. notices. Letter writing has become somewhat informal these days. and instructions." for a more formal letter or "Sincerely. or your own grade school student at home." for less formality. and punctuation reflect a careful writer and one who respects the audience or reader. trusted coworker.
You can devise a fax form cover page for use in your computer or for hand-writing. title. what. check "Check grammar with spelling" and "Show readability statistics" 5. WEB SITES We have all visited good Web sites and bad Web sites. The complete identity of the recipient is crucial in these situations. phone number. and Cornell Local Roads Program 21 . Always use a cover page. 3.3 – Written Communication Research studies have found that. Faxes should be short. fax number. believable. and include the basic information of your message. the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level index will appear. why. Follow this route: 1. The cover page should contain your name. We have included a sample form in Appendix E. and email address. where. people in the United States read on an eighth-grade level. 2. poster. Complete your document 6. flyer. FAXES When preparing a fax remember the 6 W's: who. This index establishes the reading grade level of documents you type in Word. Websites should be inviting. how. If your organization is contemplating a Web site. informative. It should have the same information for the recipient of the fax. There is a function in Microsoft Word called the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level index. although we might have a difficult time explaining the differences. or news article? How can it be updated regularly? Often Web sites are the first contact people have with you and your organization. To access the tool. when. Often faxes arrive at a central office location shared by many people. on the average. Spell-check the document At the end of the spell-check function. organization. the first question you need to answer is: why? What is the purpose of the tool? Who will use it? What benefit will the organization and users get from the site? What is different about the site's information from a newsletter. go to the Tools menu on the Standard Toolbar in the Word program on your computer. Choose the Tools menu on the Standard toolbar Choose Options Choose the Spelling and Grammar tab Under the Grammar section. 4.
Once those important questions are answered satisfactorily. Mozilla Firefox. know your audience. We can expect that figure to grow. As with all communication. Choose a Web site designer who can show you samples of work and who has references of satisfied customers. and Opera 7 for Windows operating systems – Internet Explorer. Netscape Navigator. from nobility to spirituality. they are difficult to read Avoid flashing graphics and text Keep places to click on each page to a minimum Try to use no more than three clicks to get to information Always have a link for users to return to the top of a page or to the home page Test your Web site pages before launching them to the public Ensure that your home page loads quickly. you can think about design. Much information on the Web is wrong or a downright scam. Opera. There are others available. "Netiquette" is short for InterNET etIQUETTE. Netscape. Your site should have credibility. and as we stress throughout this manual. It is easy and quick to dash off an email message. the color purple has various connotations. easy to navigate. Your Web site should be easy to read. and Mozilla for Macintosh operating systems. and vice versa. Safari. We think of letters as more formal than email. These criteria should guide you to building a successful Web site: • • • • • • • • • • • • Use a type size large enough to be legible without requiring readers to move close to the screen White lettering on black background can be difficult to read Red lettering on a blue background. and easy to find. especially links to other Web sites Update your site regularly and post the date of the most recent update EMAIL It is estimated that over 80 percent of people who have access to the Internet use email. Insist that your Web site will work with the major browsers: Internet Explorer. Do some research about colors and design. is difficult to read Do not overuse capital letters. in under ten seconds Check the site regularly for broken links. Users of email tend to write more casually than letter writers.Effective Communication Skills developed for a specific audience. Be aware of the 22 Cornell Local Roads Program . For example. Email has become another way we communicate. Use appropriate language. but we should use the most basic "netiquette" of email.
Watch for too many replies in a series of emails. and bcc options when sending a single email to multiple recipients. Their email addresses will not be visible to the other recipients. Email started that way. All names and email addresses entered on the to and cc ('carbon copy') lines will be seen by every recipient of the email. especially when responding to personal emails. Use a signature at the end of emails. Second. Know the difference between the to." and no reference is made to the original email. • • • • • • Cornell Local Roads Program 23 ." When faxes first became a popular means of communicating. It is frustrating to receive emails with blank Subject lines. It is sometimes difficult to find the From line in long email headers. This protects the privacy of the bcc recipients. most of us used a fax to send urgent information. Kelly" or "Donna" if you are on a first-name basis. "That's fine with me. Avoid overusing "urgent.3 – Written Communication recipient's use of email. You can be more casual than with letter writing. Think carefully before using the bcc option: why do you not want the other recipient(s) to know you're sending multiple copies? Here are some "netiquette" tips to help you use email effectively and responsibly: • • Avoid using all CAPITAL LETTERS. it is difficult to read emails written in all caps. Trying to read a long email message on a computer screen is difficult. On the other hand. Many people get lots of email. they may not know what you are agreeing with. Your reply should usually be sent only to the person in the To line. Even the original topic changes! Spell-check and proof-read your emails before sending them. whether the person sees email every day or once a week or even less frequently. Always include the applicable portions of the original email when using the Reply function. Instead of "Dear Ms. Always fill in the Subject line. it is considered the equivalent of shouting. Be careful using the Reply All feature. When they receive a reply like. Sometimes a string of messages becomes too long. use separate paragraphs for each topic. and "urgent" has now become too commonplace to take seriously. Finding that specific email later can be very difficult. If your message is about more than one topic. Your Subject line can also encourage readers to open your email sooner rather than later. First. each name and email address entered on the bcc ('blind carbon copy') line will not be seen by those listed in the to and cc lines. Kelly" you can write "Ms. cc.
This is especially true in the workplace. That is because the Internet is a public medium. If you would not pass around a private letter to others. Be aware that others can and may read the messages you send and the messages you receive. Courts have upheld the right of businesses to monitor employees' email messages sent from and to workplace computers. remember that although email should be treated as private communication.Effective Communication Skills • Respect privacy. Respect email privacy as much as you can. Finally. and most importantly. 24 Cornell Local Roads Program . do not forward copies of emails (or email addresses) to others without permission. all email is public to some degree.
crossing your arms. Body language can be as simple as a frown on your face. teachers. We express ourselves using what is known as body language. parents. see options. These common expressions are: • • • • • • Joy Sorrow Fear Anger Surprise Disgust Cornell Local Roads Program 25 . If we have negative attitudes we may often feel defeated. However. a smile. Our attitudes lead us to certain behavior. Some convey hostility. We try to draw impressions of people. and seek solutions to problems. We learn from our role models. It is estimated that over 75 percent of the messages we deliver are communicated nonverbally. and grooming style. Researchers have documented some non-verbal expressions common to all cultures. We learn to be parents from our own. Body language includes our gestures. others show open friendliness. These are people whose behavior we choose to copy because we value what they do and how they do it. facial expressions. We communicate a lot without saying a word. or tapping your pen on a desk. BODY LANGUAGE Our own behavior can affect those around us.Nonverbal Communication BEHAVIOR Behavior and attitude operate together for most people. and even fellow workers can be role models. supervisors. If we have positive attitudes we tend to act positively. and give up without exploring alternatives. dress. cultures show these common expressions in different ways. We learn how to be a supervisor from those supervisors we have had.4 . by observing both their verbal and non-verbal behavior. and they of us. Public officials. assume the worst outcomes.
personal. and some Arabs. optimism. Medical professionals have documented the power of positive thinking. whether in our own culture or in others less familiar. and to separate people waiting in lines at teller machines or fast food vendors for example. They fight. 26 Cornell Local Roads Program . They do not give up believing that their situation will change if they can find the right solution. or nastiness. ATTITUDE We all have the choice of how to approach the day each time we arise in the morning. SPACE In order to communicate effectively with people. spouses. Personal space ranges from 2 to 4 feet and is used among friends and family members. social. hopefulness. things happen to discourage or disrupt us. and close friends. Here is a brief description of how we use space in the communication process: Public space ranges from 12 to 25 feet and is the distance maintained between the audience and a speaker.Effective Communication Skills North Americans tend to make less eye contact than Arabs. Use of public. Latin Americans. Social space ranges from 4 to 12 feet and is used for communication among business associates. Intimate space ranges out to one foot and involves a high probability of touching. and Scots. or a professor and students in a classroom. such as the President and reporters at a press conference. French. we need to understand accepted boundaries. Germans. our children. as well as to separate strangers using public areas such as beaches and bus stops. Sure. Physical contact is natural for Italians. but we can choose to face obstacles with cheerfulness. We reserve intimate space for parents. and intimate space is interesting to observe in all cultures. stubbornness. as in whispering and embracing. Africans are taught to avoid eye contact with people of higher stature. People have aided their own healing with optimistic and hopeful thoughts. The use of space between people who are communicating has been studied extensively. orneriness. It is less common for Asians. Perhaps it is because they translate that hopefulness and optimism into action. They do not give up.
Saying. "we won't" implies a decision. "How can we?" People are more willing to follow a leader who exhibits a positive attitude. People will try to avoid those who consistently exhibit a negative or hostile attitude. instead. "we can't" implies a lack of power and a sense of defeat. We can encourage ourselves and others to seek alternatives if we say. Be positive! Cornell Local Roads Program 27 . We can talk ourselves into negative attitudes if we repeatedly think negative thoughts.4 – Nonverbal Communication Your attitude with employees and co-workers works the same way. Saying.
Effective Communication Skills 28 Cornell Local Roads Program .
When are your policies going to directly affect them? Use the media to announce changes in seasonal procedures. what it does and how. local parades. even outside the boundaries of your job. Learn how to write a simple press release (see Appendix G). Keep a photo album of projects. community open house events. and believe you. other public officials. Keep your name and office in the public's mind with positive news before something negative happens. and are handy when the press asks for them. It is easier to inform. and persuade people who understand. Take the initiative to inform your community about your office. trust. it can be neighbors. It is the person who walks in the door or the person on the other end of the ringing telephone. especially "before" and "after" pictures. you should think of ways to create allies. You need to reassure them in times of crisis. Communication defines public image as much as action does. Those can be shared at public events. You need to be aware that you are vulnerable to criticism any time you do or say something. Cornell Local Roads Program 29 . Who is your public? In addition to your area residents and businesses. speaking to classes. submit something once in a while. Public relations opportunities are excellent ways to meet and inform the public: school fairs. advocacy groups. So. whether you are elected or appointed. and persuade them that your policies are for the public good. You can do all the good deeds you can think of. and the media.5 – Communication with the Public PUBLIC RELATIONS AND HOW TO USE IT Communicating with the public is one of the most important jobs of public officials. but if you fail to communicate positively with the public. If your municipality has a local newsletter. You communicate with the public for three basic reasons: • • • To inform To reassure To persuade It is your responsibility to inform the public of the responsibilities of your office. If your newspaper publishes guest editorials. consider contributing an article or announcement in each issue. your reputation can be damaged. reassure.
This approach can help offset complaints. Remember to acknowledge everyone with a positive attitude. These groups include the Lions. remember to say. Chamber of Commerce. Be sure to maintain eye contact when dealing with customers in person.Effective Communication Skills Nearly every community has civic organizations that meet on a regular basis. Tell them about your job. Ask a couple of the questions suggested above. Kiwanis. tourism board. how your work affects the community. Show your willingness to help and a concern for their feelings. The work you do is central to the life of your municipality. Always offer thanks for their comments. Rotary. To find out how you measure up with your customers. "thanks." 30 Cornell Local Roads Program . and which serve the community. CUSTOMER SERVICE Effectively serving the public means putting your customers first. and about any plans for improvements. Focus on your customers. League of Women Voters. Ask customers to rate your service by telling you if it was about what they expected. and 4-H. Contact them and offer to speak at one of their meetings. local schools. and take thorough notes (remember the 6 W's!). what time the work will start in the mornings. Make the extra effort to inform people of planned road work around their neighborhoods. It does not matter if customers are right or wrong. Give your name and phone number and invite inquiries. evaluate your effectiveness. whether in person or on the telephone. Tell them the approximate dates. You should have a customer service policy that all of your employees know and practice. it matters how they feel when they hang up the phone! And. less than they expected (ask why!). Grange. or more than they expected (great news! also ask why). Ask your employees and customers questions like these: How fast are phones answered? How well are phones answered? What is the appearance of your office? What is the appearance of employees? How do customers rate the quality of information? You can evaluate customer service by calling a few people who have interacted with your office in the previous three to six months. how weather can affect your plans. by practicing good listening skills. your accomplishments. what time it ends each day.
5 – Communication with the Public
COMPLAINTS Despite all the positive and proactive measures you take, there will be complaints when you work in public service. Have a procedure in place for handling complaints. Then, make sure that your employees know the procedure and follow it. Here are suggestions that combine the best procedures that we have heard from public officials who have attended this course. They work! Devise a system for recording all complaints, whether they come into your office in writing, by phone, or employees hear a complaint while out on the job. As their supervisor, make sure all of your employees know how to record complaints properly. Keep a written record of who, what, when, where, why, and how. You can use a single form to record all of these transactions. Should you be involved in litigation in the future, your record of actions taken in response to citizen complaints can save you and your municipality from costly civil actions. See the sample complaint form in Appendix D. You can use it for telephone calls, too. One of the most effective ways to handle complaints is to realize that you must set boundaries with your response. Sometimes you can respond quickly, maybe immediately. Other times you will need to ask the person lodging a complaint to make an appointment with you. Acknowledge the issue, and suggest that by making an appointment, you will have more time to discuss the problem and work toward a solution. The appointment may be in your office or out in the field. A key question to have ready is, "What action do you seek from me (or our department)?" Encourage the complainant to be specific. Be cautious about promising solutions. Look for all angles and all sides of the issue. Tips for dealing with complaints • • • • • • Do not take it personally, and do not get defensive Never act on a complaint without hearing both sides of the story When in doubt, leave it out. (Maintain positive language. If you are about to say, "We never. . ." or "You shouldn't. . ." – don't!) Avoid blaming anyone: it does not help resolution to dump on someone else Say what you will do and when (set time limits and stick to them. Even if you merely get back to someone with the progress you are making, do it. In the absence of facts, people make up reality). Take notes
Cornell Local Roads Program
Effective Communication Skills
Effective communication comes full circle when you have listened, taken action, and then informed the person who made the complaint that the problem has been dealt with. Be careful to promise only what you can deliver! Once the problem has been solved, report back to the person who made the complaint. Say THANKS for bringing the issue to your attention. If possible, thank someone in person. Let the complainant know you have taken care of the problem. Lastly, whether you consider the process positive or negative, use it in your next employee training session. SUMMARY Whether dealing with complaints or just inquiries from the public, here are some things to remember: • • • • Show willingness to help Show concern for feelings Offer alternatives Astonish! (offer an alternative that will delight your customers!)
Cornell Local Roads Program
6 – Communication in the workplace
__________________________________________________ Communicating with the public is one of the most important jobs of public officials. Communication defines public image as much as action does. You can do all the good deeds you can think of, but if you fail to communicate positively with the public, your reputation can be damaged. Effective communication in the workplace happens with effort. That effort must include participation and agreement between supervisors and employees. Each must want similar goals. Each must work with the other to achieve the goals. According to Achieve Solutions – Value Options (a service for managed behavioral health care), a sense of common purpose can be the key in getting along with your coworkers. If you do not understand your department's or organization's goals and objectives, ask your boss. If you and your coworkers focus on common purpose, tasks become easier and results more predictable. SUPERVISORS Effective supervisors need to be available to employees. Whether you maintain an "open door" policy or not, employees should know when and how they can communicate with supervisors. If employees have ready access to their bosses, they will be able to clarify the common goals and objectives of the work place. Attitude and Behavior Much is conveyed by a supervisor's attitude and behavior. Getting cooperation from each other is as much influenced by our attitudes as our behaviors. If we convey a positive attitude, people react to us positively. Conversely, if we convey a negative attitude, we will experience negativity in return. Consider this example: NEGATIVE BOSS: "You'll never finish this job if you run the grader that way." POSITIVE BOSS: "There are a couple of different ways to run that grader. How about if I show you one way I found that makes the job go smoother?"
Cornell Local Roads Program
an employee key to the operation called in sick. and will work with them to be successful. One way to display a positive attitude is to give more credit than you take. Supervisors should not take good work for granted. and begin by directing it to yourself. Employees will pick up on negativity and imitate it. Humor has an important role in the workplace. positive attitudes will convert into positive behaviors. Everyone needs to know the "road map. you can either wander aimlessly. Just like a trip across the country. Thank people regularly. Such behavior conveys an attitude of defeat before you start to problem-solve. If employees get credit for making supervisors look good. Use it wisely.Effective Communication Skills Consider how to approach problems in the workplace. announce the trouble. Praise good work. Goals and Objectives Supervisors should reveal occupational goals and objectives. and a vehicle has broken down. On the other hand. set a schedule for departure and arrival. Perhaps the person has an ill parent at home to care for. If you need overtime help. and be careful to maintain a professional manner. and chart your course. Be assertive. If there is a job to complete. Build relationships with your workers. A positive attitude can be converted to positive group interaction to solve the problem. asking the most senior worker may not be doing them a favor. never at the expense of someone's embarrassment. everyone benefits. Successful supervisors who are well-liked and respected as leaders always give credit where it is due. You can anticipate detours along the way. When employees know that supervisors believe in their abilities. materials are late arriving. The detours might be placed in your path by others or you may decide to create your own alternative route. or you can develop a plan." • • • • Where are you going? How can you get there together? What obstacles might you encounter? Who has the skill to contribute to success? 34 Cornell Local Roads Program . it is easy to literally throw up your hands and voice despair. Remember that what motivates one person may not work with another. Be specific about behavior that needs to change. another employee may welcome overtime to help pay for a newly purchased house. and ask for everyone's cooperation and help in getting the job done. They also know how to share success with employees who contribute to a winning situation.
Using the "road map" analogy.6 – Communication in the Workplace The differences between goals and objectives are subtle. Ensure customers are satisfied via a follow-up phone call. and Fair Stick to what you say if it is important and right. then. when achieved. an example of a goal and its objectives is the following: GOAL: Drive safely from Pennsylvania to Nevada in five days. Answer telephones within three rings. If your actions are different from your words. OBJECTIVES: 1. and friendly customer service response. Remember. They need to know your "destination" and the "proposed route. and plan stops accordingly. On the other Cornell Local Roads Program 35 . 2. Drive no longer than eight hours per day. would you achieve goals? That is where objectives come into the picture. Examples of goals and objectives that a public works department might have are these: GOAL: Establish and maintain timely. Develop route using up-to-date maps. you are "drawing a road map" for employees. OBJECTIVES: 1. Be Clear. terminates behavior intended to achieve it… Merriam-Webster's dictionary defines goal as: The end toward which effort is directed… How. A goal is the vision or purpose of an organization or work unit. 2. 3. efficient. Maintain safe conditions by checking weather and road construction reports. your employees will believe less of what you say." Objectives are specific ways to reach goals. It is defined by World Reference. 3.com as: The state of affairs that a plan is intended to achieve and that. Respond to inquiries within 24 hours. It is essential for employees to believe that what supervisors say one day will not substantially change the next. Consistent.
they will be able to "coach" each other along the way. Training When employees know what the finished product should look like and the correct techniques necessary to achieve it.Effective Communication Skills hand. If they do not know your vision for the finished product. And. how you want it done. which makes everyone feel that effort really counts. everyone will know that the stone must be spread before the emulsion breaks. 36 Cornell Local Roads Program . employees need to know what the job is. Training can save money by decreasing the costly mistakes. admit it. and when you want it done. Here is how: • • • • • • • • Establish standards for quality and communicate them Establish lines of authority so everyone knows who is in charge Know what you want before telling others Tell why if you change your mind Be brave about admitting mistakes (use it as a learning opportunity for everyone) Know when to compromise and have alternatives in mind Know when and how to criticize (never publicly) Respect individuality When trying to motivate employees. This can help to build a "pride of workmanship. Establish standards and let everyone who works with you know what they are. Supervisors should include regular training for staff. Setting training objectives Supervisors should set training objectives for everyone. if everyone knows what the final product should be. keep in mind that usually what you are trying to accomplish is to get someone to perform the job better. fun. In order to do a job well." Your crew will likely include members that may eventually become supervisors. if you need to reverse a decision or try a better way to do something. you may get a different result than you planned. Here are some examples of training objectives: For a chip seal operation by a highway department: Objective: After training. and upbeat way. Training will help develop these future leaders. quality will improve. Everyone respects honesty. Training can help to build good morale if done in an interesting.
Cornell Local Roads Program 37 . A short lesson or refresher session in 15 minutes can be just as effective as a three-hour training class. when everyone is wondering why some event failed to develop as planned) Whenever there is a significant turnover of employees Training need not be long or involved every time you do it. such as workbooks. accompanied by some written material to refer to later. handbooks. "Read the manual" is good advice. and guides. For safety: Objective: A minimum of three employees will be trained to perform CPR. state regional offices. safety agencies. manuals. statewide associations. This approach uses the written material to reinforce the visual and oral presentation. the Internet and the Cornell Local Roads Program. Written training resources are available from county highway departments.6 – Communication in the Workplace For effective customer service: Objective: Everyone will learn and use a standard telephone greeting. equipment vendors. Videos are effective ways to provide regular training sessions for highway crews. Do not rely on written materials as the sole means of training. Here are a few other suggestions: • • • • • A week or two prior to an operation because the training will be fresh in everyone's mind when the activity begins When new equipment is added to inventory On a rainy day or during a time when the work load is light When interest is high (for example. but a better approach is a combination of showing people what you want them to learn. When to train Training should be conducted when there are new procedures to learn or as a refresher for an activity that involves safety. How to train Training can be conducted with written materials. You can build your own library by searching the Internet and you can borrow videos free of charge from the Cornell Local Roads Program.
when performance will be assessed. Get the whole 38 Cornell Local Roads Program . Engage employees in the process by asking them for a performance report for the evaluation period. Here are some tips to help you with employee performance evaluations: • • • • • Evaluate. the more likely there will be standard performance evaluation forms to use. Consider opportunities to join coworkers for recreation outside of the workplace. These may be determined by union rules. the objectives. Ask them! Evaluation People need to know the score. The larger the organizational structure. Listening is key to your success as an employee." They need to know how their performances will be measured. even though it is a tough job. Then use those as a way to begin your discussion. Sometimes local highway department employees can sit in on county sessions or presentations by state regional offices. Do more listening than talking. employees deserve it Expect what employees can deliver by considering individual capabilities Collect data constantly Measure results that you have clearly defined Reward good work EMPLOYEES Employees have a responsibility to contribute to the team effort. and specific times for evaluation meetings. How would you feel as a batter if no one kept score during a baseball game? What would be the point of playing? What would be the motivation to continue? Likewise. and how the results will be used. Let coworkers get to know you. Your behavior should indicate a positive attitude. especially when work orders are being conveyed. the goals. and become part of the workplace. Invite them to tell you in writing what they think their achievements and successes have been.Effective Communication Skills Consider working with other agencies to share training. Employees should learn the job. against what standards they will be evaluated. employees need to know their "scores. Measure employee performance with consistent and fair evaluation tools.
6 – Communication in the Workplace story before you begin questioning. and how." How are you measuring up to the boss' expectations? Be prepared for your formal performance evaluation by keeping good records. when. What is the learning curve? By participating in training you not only improve your skills. why. Observe what coworkers do and how they do it. ask your supervisor for your "score. take advantage of it. Arrive a little early. where. How does the boss react to certain behavior of employees? Is humor encouraged in the workplace? Is initiative rewarded? Let your observations guide your own attitude and behavior. your coworkers. Ask questions when you do not understand. take the high road. Attitude and Behavior Observe your supervisor's attitude and behavior. Remember the key questions: who. Ask your boss what the expectations are for learning a skill. Once you have received orientation and training. and you will be a better employee: • • • • • Be dependable and loyal Be willing to accept criticism Accept praise gracefully Be neat and clean Be positive Training When there is a training opportunity. you increase your value to your supervisor. Performance Evaluation Keep track of your performance successes and ways you can improve. you can begin to observe the workplace routine. join in the coffee breaks. After you feel comfortable in your new job. how they relate to each other and to the boss. and be available for tough jobs. volunteer for projects to increase your skills. When in doubt. Avoid being argumentative. When in doubt. Let your behavior indicate your attitude. especially if you have promotion as a goal. what. You can choose to be cooperative and positive. Keep these behaviors and attitudes in mind. Cornell Local Roads Program 39 . Offer to help others when it is appropriate. or negative and troublesome. and the organization.
like these: What should I have done to perform better on that job? What is one thing I can do to improve my attitude? If I want to be promoted. one of the positive supervisor. what training can I get to help me? SUMMARY Much data has been collected and analyzed by organizational communication researchers. ask specific questions. The POSITIVE BOSS: • • • • • • • • • Gives real responsibility to workers Trusts them Listens to them without criticism Listens without interrupting Is unafraid to admit mistakes Encourages them to think and to learn Encourages them to work out their problems together Appreciates their work Fosters good humor EMPLOYEES who have positive attitudes: • • • • • Contribute ideas Help one another Are comfortable expressing disagreement Laugh a lot. Consider these two profiles. and the other of people who are employed by them. often together Learn readily and accept new ideas from the boss and from each other You may not yet be a supervisor. and you'll be there sooner than you think. 40 Cornell Local Roads Program . A couple of interesting profiles have emerged. That's terrific! Do something new each year toward your goals. but you may want to be some day. Maybe that's why you're reading this manual or attending the workshop.Effective Communication Skills If you disagree with your supervisor's evaluation.
First. retired County Engineer. None of us like interruptions when we are busy. They may set policy. 3. and it has been reprinted many times since.7 – Communication with your Governing Board __________________________________________________ One of the best summaries of how to get along with your board members is the article. Cornell Local Roads Program 41 . San Luis Obispo County. This will determine how successful you are in all aspects of your job as the leader of your highway or public works department. someone who is interested in road and street projects. Approach your board with your recommendations in positive language. needs. Nothing sours a relationship more than visible defeat and a bad attitude. We offer it here. courtesy of the National Association of County Engineers (NACE). This person can become your liaison with other board members. in summary. but also the "hows" and "whys" of your recommendations. California. 5. 2. This is easier if you develop an advocate on the board. establish a good relationship with your board. "The Ten Commandments of Political Engineering. with persuasive arguments and plenty of details. you manage your department. Protopapas. Do your homework. and then embrace the result with enthusiasm. and budget requests. and foremost. Fight as hard as you can. Remember. You may need their cooperation at any time. for your requests. Make yourself available to board members. but strongly present your case. He first offered this advice in 1992. Brief this person frequently about your plans. Prepare not just the facts. If you are defeated. you will have to deal with these folks again. You should make an exception for calls from board members. Avoid asking them what they think or what they want regarding an administrative or engineering matter. 4. thank the board for their attention. Consider their comments." The Ten Commandments was written by George C. Keep your board informed about the operations of your department. THE TEN COMMANDMENTS OF POLITICAL ENGINEERING 1.
Whenever new board members begin a term of office. your duties should be defined clearly. explain what they mean. 42 Cornell Local Roads Program . Make your board members look good to the public. This will discourage individual board members from requesting you to do something that is unethical. consider informing the board member first. and suggesting the board member contact the complainant. and expect them to do the same for you. Never embarrass board members in public. and you will maintain a reputation for integrity. Make sure all board members know your duties and responsibilities. 9. wait until after the meeting ends to correct the error. When you receive compliments from the public. treat it with the utmost importance. you can begin to educate that person about the terms and definitions you use in your job. Whether you are elected or appointed. suggest that people pass them along to the board in writing. When a board member refers a complaint to you. and especially if it is good news. or in conflict with other employees of your municipality. If you use acronyms in speaking or in writing. You will sometimes tell your board things they will not want to hear. 7. You will look good no matter who delivers the news. especially in meetings. If a board member makes a mistake at a public meeting. Not everyone knows what application rates or retroreflectivity or motor grader techniques are. give them this information. You will gain their respect. 8. Remember that your highway operations involve some specific language. 10. say it is the Federal Highway Administration.Effective Communication Skills 6. Always tell them the truth. Your credibility is one of your most important assets. Stay away from showing favoritism. Above all. If you develop an advocate on your board. Treat all board members in the same manner. The first time you use FHWA. unprofessional. When the issue is resolved. SPEAK THE SAME LANGUAGE When you are communicating with your board members. communicate facts honestly. Then you can repeat the acronym because everyone will know what it means. use simple language.
it is wise to stay clear of political campaigns. Prepare brief reports. The Cornell Local Roads Program conducts training sessions throughout the state every year at reasonable cost. and serve coffee. You should make the case to your board for continual upgrading of your skills because it will benefit them and your municipality. Decline to endorse current or potential board members. but have something Cornell Local Roads Program 43 . Whether you are appointed or elected. Remain neutral politically because you do not know who you may be working with after the election. It is important to know what is going on and how it might affect you and your department. and private training sources. This makes them look good. If you cannot get to a meeting. Invite them to meet your crew some morning. keep your ear tuned to the political climate in your municipality.7 – Communication with Your Governing Board POLITICS A lot could be said about municipal politics. and remain neutral. VISIBLE. and makes you look smart. supervisors). they can respond to questions from the public. Local educational institutions offer courses in computer skills. TRUTHFUL Be friendly and available. Keep in touch with local. Invite board members to see the new vehicle they authorized in the budget. regional. state. SEEK TRAINING We discuss training for employees in Chapter 6. Subscribe to newsletters and publications in your field. In turn. Do a lot of listening. It is even more important to stay out of political disputes. managers. BE AVAILABLE. INFORMED. even your highway liaison on the board. At the same time. Resist pressure to agree with one side or the other. Some of these are free for the asking to public works officials. especially when you have good news and you are not asking for something. State government holds regional seminars. Be visible by appearing regularly at board meetings. A five-minute summary of progress on your spring clean-up or summer paving jobs will keep your board informed. It is easier to work with people you know and understand. It is equally important to seek training for yourself and your other administrators (deputies.
use your board liaison. It is best to have your request typed so that it can be accurately included in the minutes. If some goals were not reached. no one else will. Know current issues and how they might affect the public works department. Have your short update read into the meeting record. or to have them help you. make sure that the graphics are large enough to be seen easily by someone sitting at the back of the room. When a request from your department is on the agenda. or tables. It is a reminder to your board of what has happened. tell why. Thank your board for their support. Remind your board of the goals you set. Know what's important to your board. Do this in a straightforward manner. you will have no problems remembering what you said! REPORT YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS Be proactive about reporting your accomplishments. be prepared to address the issue. If you are using visuals such as a photographic display. Remember that you want them on your team next year. Remember: if you always tell the truth. There may be opportunities for you to assist board members. If you do not do it. At the end of each year. summarize the goals and achievements. Establish the habit of reporting to your board. Then outline your goals and plans for the next season. 44 Cornell Local Roads Program . Be aware of agenda items.Effective Communication Skills good to report. Include what did not happen and why. This is critical if lack of budget support was responsible for not meeting your goals. and what was achieved. without criticism. perhaps after each season. charts. Make copies of the request available for all board members.
Fourth Edition. and E. Berkley Books (New York. Penguin Books (New York. 1998) Working with Difficult People. Deep and Lyle Sussman. Nebraska T2 Center newsletter (Lincoln. 2000) Getting to Yes. revised 1986) One Minute Manager (The). Perseus Books (Massachusetts. Second Edition. Massachusetts.Appendix A Publication Resources Better Bosses=Better Roads. Penguin Books (New York. William Strunk Jr. Samuel D. Roger Fisher and Danny Ertel. B. April 1989) The Elements of Style. 1990) How To Talk and Communicate At the Same Time. National Association of County Engineers Training Guide Series (Kansas City. 1995) Cornell Local Roads Program 45 . and Bruce Patton. 1989) Guide to Employee Communication. Communication Briefings (Pitman. A Pearson Education Company (Needham Heights. Allyn and Bacon. 1995) Getting Together. White. Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson. 1991) Getting Ready to Negotiate: the Getting to Yes Workbook. Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In. William Lundin and Kathleen Lundin. New Jersey. 1983) Power Tools: 33 Management Inventions You Can Use Today. Nebraska. American Management Association (New York. Roger Fisher and Scott Brown. Roger Fisher. William Ury. (The). Penguin Books USA (New York.
makoa.au www. 2002) www.about.iwillfollow.htm General Information: Achieve Solutions – Value Options www.dictionary.com/english/html/65mailet.com Communication Briefings www.about.edu/grammar Merriam-Webster dictionary online www.webstyleguide.grantasticdesigns.library.org/web-design.valueoptions.htm careerplanning. Texas.com/cs/designbasics/a/webrules. Email Etiquette: www.htm www.com.commnet.edu/crc Guide to Grammar and Writing www.learnthenet.html graphicdesign.com/guide_etiquette.combriefings.com Maria Finch.firelily.com Crisis Resource Center. Dictionary www. University of Houston (Houston.com/opinions/thumb.com Web site Design: www.com/newsroom/factsheet_achieve.Effective Communication Skills Appendix B Internet Resources The following sources were used in researching the information presented in this manual.html www.com www.emailreplies.htm www.com/email.com/od/communication/a/email_etiquette.htm www.m-w.derby.htm www.uk/system/modules/view/timetable.htm www.uh.yale.com/5rules. England) ibs.edu/training/netiquette www.com/technical/etiquette.ccc. University of Derby (Derby.ac.php?mcode=4CL002 46 Cornell Local Roads Program .dynamoo.emailaddresses.webpagedesign.htm Ask Dr.
Inc. Gerlach. NE 2005) sfhelp.Appendices Seven Things to Notice.htm World Reference (online dictionary) www.wordreference. MSW.org/02/awareness. Stepfamily Association of America. (Lincoln. Cornell Local Roads Program 47 .com PLEASE NOTE: Internet addresses for Web sites change frequently. Peter K. The URLs for these sites are correct as of June 2005.
Communication Briefings Make the Phone Work for You. 42 minutes. Long Island Productions Exercises in Communication Skills. For more information. 27 minutes. 27 minutes. 17 minutes. 45 minutes. Kantola Productions Power Writing: The Key to Success. 48 Cornell Local Roads Program . We regret that we are unable to lend videos out of state because of our many in-state requests. 15 minutes. Communication Briefings Team of Your Life. American Management Association Communicate and Win. 12 minutes. 17 minutes. Berkeley Media Videos are available for free loan from the Cornell Local Roads Program to highway and public works officials in New York State. call CLRP at 607-255-8033. 25 minutes. 12 minutes. Communication Briefings Correcting and Rewarding Employee Behavior. Communication Briefings Making Your Point Without Saying a Word. 27 minutes. 48 minutes.Effective Communication Skills Appendix C Videotape and DVD Resources Be Prepared to Speak. 28 minutes. 38 minutes. American Management Association Managing People. Communication Briefings Tap the Power of Teamwork. Long Island Productions Listening: The Key to Productivity. Communication Briefings Communicating with People on the Job. Caterpillar A World of Gestures. CU Instructional Resources Better Business Grammar. 52 minutes. 18 minutes. Communication Briefings Coaching for Top Performance. Communication Briefings Powerful Ways to Persuade People.
Appendices Appendix D Sample Inquiry/Complaint Form INQUIRY / COMPLAINT FORM phone letter Date: fax Time of call: e-mail in person Name: Address: TOWN OF NORTON HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT Email: Phone #: Request or complaint: Referred for resolution to: Completed by: Action taken: Date: Date completed: Cornell Local Roads Program 49 .
Effective Communication Skills Appendix E Fax Cover Form F A X TO: Phone: Fax number: F R O M: Phone: Fax number: Number of pages including this one: Message: 50 Cornell Local Roads Program .
We regret any inconvenience this work may cause you. we expect that when completed. and compacting the new gravel that the crew plans to lay on the road. NY 12345 (123) 456-7890 NOTICE TO: FROM: Residents of Highland Road Rudy Roadmaster Superintendent of Highways Beginning on September 17 the highway crew will be working on Highland Road from approximately 7:00 a. By getting the water off the road as fast as possible. regraveling the roadway. However. and providing you with better service. Early in the morning is best. Thank you for your cooperation and patience during this road work. and I'll return your call. before 7:30 a. You may leave a message on the machine. or try between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. Cornell Local Roads Program 51 . We expect to complete the road work by September 30. preventing further rutting and deterioration.. until 4:00 p. The work includes cleaning the ditches.m. the roadway will drain better in the spring rains and winter thaws. the new gravel will last longer. If you have any questions or comments about the work.Appendices Appendix F Sample Road Work Notice Town of Paradise Highway Department One Main Street Paradise. please call me at the Highway Garage.m.m.
m. 2005 Rudy Roadmaster Superintendent of Highways Town of Paradise Paradise. NY 12345 CONTACT: Phone: (123) 456-7890 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ATTENTION: Editors/Reporters/Announcers The Town of Paradise will hold an open discussion about its pavement management plan for the town's road system.Effective Communication Skills Appendix G Sample Press Release Town of Paradise Highway Department One Main Street Paradise. The town board and highway officials will discuss the plan and answer questions from the public. July 10. 2005 7:30 p. Wednesday. NY 12345 (123) 456-7890 DATE: June 12. NY The Highway Superintendent has developed a five-year capital improvement plan for the town's roads. 52 Cornell Local Roads Program . Town Hall One Main Street Paradise. The plan is available for review ahead of the meeting by calling the town clerk at (123) 456-7890.
This action might not be possible to undo. Are you sure you want to continue?
We've moved you to where you read on your other device.
Get the full title to continue listening from where you left off, or restart the preview.


text:
The North Star Cougars football team has an away conference game @ Berlin Brothersvalley on Friday, August 26 @ 7p.
MaxPreps is looking for one person to be the Official Scorer! This person will provide LIVE play-by-play for fans to follow along during the game.
If you have any corrections for the North Star football schedule please contact Support.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Has It Been A Year Already? Gangnam Style A Year Old, Psy's Channel at 3 Billion Views
Chris Atkinson
Psy's "Gangnam Style" is a year old today. And his channel just hit 3 billion views. And there's a lot of talk about how this video introduced the world to K-Pop, when it was a little-known musical genre before 2012.


text:
Nash County Historical Association Collection, 1806-1928
Creator: Nash County Historical Association.
Collection number: 5480
View finding aid.
Abstract: The Nash County Historical Association (NCHA), a non-profit group headquartered in Rocky Mount, N.C., was organized in 1970 to promote the study and preservation of local history and genealogy. Since 1975, NCHA has been responsible for the administration, restoration, and
Read more…
Grimes Family Papers, 1713-1947
Creator: Grimes family.
Collection number: 3357
View finding aid.
Abstract: In 1815, Bryan Grimes (1793-1860) of Pitt County, N.C., married Nancy Grist. Three of their children reached maturity: Susan, William (1823-1884), and Bryan Grimes Jr. (1828-1880). The elder Grimes gave his two sons plantations along the Tar River. The brothers prospered Read more…
Theodore Rosengarten Oral History Interviews and Other Recordings, 1971-1977
Creator: Rosengarten, Theodore.
Collection number: 5407
View finding aid.
Abstract: Theodore Rosengarten (1944- ) graduated from Amherst College in 1966 and received his Ph.D. in American civilization from Harvard University in 1975. In 1969, in the course of his research on the Alabama Sharecroppers Union in Read more…
Pinckney Cotesworth Harrington papers, 1829-1893.
Creator: Harrington, Pinckney Cotesworth, fl. 1853-1893.
Collection number: 1705
View finding aid.
Abstract: Pinckney Cotesworth Harrington and his father, James Harrington (d. 1866), were cotton planters in Franklin County, Miss. The collection is chiefly papers relating to the Harringtons' cotton plantations. There are Read more…
Bertie County (N.C.) account books, 1833-1849; 1881-1893.
Creator: Bertie County (N.C.) account books.
Collection number: 1758
View finding aid.
Abstract: Antebellum account books from Bertie County, N.C., including general merchandising accounts of Cherry and Outlaw and of H. Thompson; accounts of Gray and Pierce for wages paid in the production of shingles and for sales of shingles Read more…
Lucy Tunstall Alston Williams papers, 1827-1979.
Creator: Williams, Lucy Tunstall Alston, 1869-1940.
Collection number: 4351
View finding aid.
Abstract: Lucy Tunstall Alston Williams was the daughter of Jane Elizabeth Crichton (1840-1891) and Philip Guston Alston (1839-1924), a farmer and Confederate Army captain, of Warren County, Read more…
Alexander Boyd Andrews papers, 1859-1891.
Creator: Andrews, Alexander Boyd, 1841-1915.
Collection number: 3245
View finding aid.
Abstract: Confederate Army officer, planter, and railroad executive, of North Carolina. Papers, 1859-1891, consist of correspondence and other business papers of A. B. Andrews relating to his career as a railroad executive and capitalist, chiefly correspondence, bills, routine reports Read more…


text:
The Nintendo 3DS exclusive role playing game Shin Megami Tensei IV is now available for a reduced price on GameStop.
The game is now available for only $19.99, which is an excellent price, considering the digital version is now available for $29.99 on the 3DS eShop. Considering how big the game is, Shin Megami Tensei IV is more than worth this reduced price.
Shin Megami Tensei IV is the latest main entry of the long running role playing series created by Atlus, and the first main entry to get released on a portable console.
Shin Megami Tensei IV sports all the classic features of the series like plenty of demons to collect, different choices to take during the course of the game that will ultimately change the story, a nice turn based battle system that has received some enhancements from the previous entry of the series and more.
If all the game's content are not enough for you, Atlus has released plenty of DLC packs, which include not only items that can customize your characters appearance but also extra quests that will rewward you with some strong demons once completed.
Shin Megami Tensei IV is now available on Nintendo 3DS in Japan and North America. The game will finally be released in Europe sometime during Summer.