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The Five Types of Conversations You Should Be Having With Your Employees

Published Mon May 16 2022

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Everyone knows communication in the workplace is critical to organizational success, but what types of conversations, specifically, should you be having? There are five types of conversations that drive teamwork, and they’re what you should be focusing on. First is the role and relationship conversation. In these discussions, managers will define what success looks like in an individual role and set goals with the employee to help them increase performance. A quick-connect conversation is more informal and helps with relationship building. While not strictly about work, establishing trust is important for business goals. Slightly more formal, check-in discussions are working meetings about progress and priorities. This is where you can review and amend expectations as well as understand any obstacles in the way of achieving goals. Developmental coaching conversations focus on immediate feedback and proactive coaching in the moment, and formal progress conversations should take a holistic look at the employee’s performance and growth. If you’re a manager, consider the types of conversations you’re having with your employees and if one of these five conversation types isn’t happening or could be done better.

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