Knowledge has limited value if we cannot explain it to the people we work with. A vague request, an unspoken dilemma or an answer that humiliates the other party can create a problem even when the professional judgment is good.
Communication starts with checking whether we understand each other. This includes listening, explaining why, and being willing to ask the other side a question without fear of coming off as incompetent.
How we react to disagreement is also important. We can remain precise and decisive without attributing bad intentions to the other person. Trust is built when people know that their problem will be heard, even when the proposal is not accepted.
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