Effective Praise

Praise specific skills as opposed to a vague ‘way to go’ or ‘good job’

Praising the detail demonstrates that you were watching / listening, that you took the time to see what the person did and that the praise is authentic as opposed to perfunctory.

Assertive communication as differentiated from passive, aggressive styles.

What is the language, voice tone, body language and pace of each style?

‘people will take advantage of any sign of weakness’ tends towards an aggressive style

‘it’s wrong to complain – Passive style sends out a message ‘I don’t believe you’ll listen to me anyway.’

‘people can be trusted’ – assertive style

5 step model of assertive commuication

1. Identify and work to understand the situation

2. Describe the situation objectively and accurately

3. Express concerns

4. Ask the other person for his/her perspective and work towards an acceptable change

5. List the benefits that will follow when the change is implemented