Say it with your Chest
Instead of saying, “That’s not my job,” this response promotes teamwork and professionalism.
What is, “Let’s figure out how we can get this done” or “How can I help?”
Nodding and paraphrasing are examples of this skill.
What is active listening?
A coworker consistently interrupts you during meetings. You say nothing but later complain about them to other coworkers.
What is Passive communication?
A coworker gives you feedback you don’t like. What response guarantees escalation?
“What is, ‘You’re not my boss—mind your business’?”
The first step in resolving conflict effectively is often this action.
What is listening without interrupting?
This communication technique focuses on expressing your feelings without blaming the other person.
What are “I-statements”?
This question type encourages deeper explanation instead of yes/no responses.
What are open-ended questions?
“I don’t care. Whatever you want is fine.” (Even though the person is clearly upset.)
What is Passive communication?
You need clarification on an assignment, but you don’t want to seem “annoying.” What’s the best wrong move?
“What is, pretend I understand and guess?”
When emotions are high, this strategy helps prevent escalation.
What is taking a pause or regulating your emotions before responding?
This phrase escalates conflict: “You always do this.” Why?
What is it uses absolutes and triggers defensiveness?
Interrupting someone mid-sentence often signals this negative communication habit.
What is poor listening or lack of respect?
A coworker interrupts you during meetings. You respond with,
“Can you stop cutting me off? That’s rude.”
What is Aggressive communication?
A coworker is frustrated and raising their voice. What should you do to make it worse?
What is, match their tone and raise my voice too?”
Instead of arguing about who is right, effective communicators shift the focus to this.
What is finding a solution?
This communication strategy encourages problem-solving instead of personal attacks.
What is focusing on the behavior, not the person?
Repeating back what someone said in your own words helps clarify this.
What is understanding?
A coworker interrupts you during meetings. You respond with,
“I’d like to finish my thought. I’ll give you a chance right after.”
What is Assertive communication?
You made a mistake that impacted the team. What’s the best way to protect your pride?
What is, blame someone else immediately?”
This structured communication tool is commonly used in healthcare to reduce misunderstandings.
What is SBAR?
In professional communication, correcting someone publicly instead of privately can damage this key workplace element.
What is trust (or psychological safety)?
Active listening requires hearing not just the words but also this.
What is the underlying emotion?
This style often includes raised voice, blaming language, and intimidating body posture.
What is Aggressive communication?
A coworker says, “I’m overwhelmed.” What’s the least supportive response?
“What is, ‘Sounds like a you problem’?”
When conflict persists despite direct communication, this may be the appropriate next step.
What is involving a supervisor or mediator?