How Communication Affects Relationships At Work

In this episode, I’d like to talk about ‘The Paradox of Respectful Candor’. Which is the tendency to be straightforward and respectful in the manner that we communicate. It’s one of the 12 behavioural paradoxes developed by Dr. Dan Harrison. And, if we think of a paradox as two statements which seem to be contradictory but are in fact both true, we can think of a behavioural paradox as two traits, which seem to be contradictory, but in fact, when they come together, are synergistic.

Frank

So, if we look at ‘The Paradox of Respectful Candor’, we’ve got the trait of being ‘Frank’. Which is the tendency to be straightforward, and direct to the point.

Diplomatic

And, the trait of being ‘Diplomatic’, which is the tendency to be respectful and thoughtful when we speak to others, and respectful of their feelings…

Blunt

People know where we stand. However, it can lead to us becoming seen as being ‘Blunt’…

Evasive

However, we may come across as being ‘Evasive’. People don’t know exactly what it is that we mean…

Forthright Diplomacy

And, we really also need to look at the team that you’re in and how you can create more ‘Forthright Diplomacy’ by being balanced…

So, when it comes to ‘The Paradox of Respectful Candor’, remember, stay curious!

With best regards,
David Klaasen

Talent4Performance helps business leaders clarify complexity. We inspire people and drive continuous performance improvement so they can convert thinking into action and results.

© David Klaasen – 2022