One phrase to make you more effective at work
Parent Post
Two words, used alone
Two words, used alone or prefacing a question, can help you connect better with your coworkers and boss.
Few people know this better than Alexandra Carter, negotiation trainer for the United Nations and director of the Mediation Clinic at Columbia University Law School.
Carter started using the phrase “tell me” when she was trained as a mediator in the early 2000s, and she was astonished at the information it revealed.
‘Tell me’ is more
‘Tell me’ is more than just a prompt.
It almost compels the other person to open up to you. It’s the broadest possible question to give you the most information.
That gives you the best possible insight into the challenges you’re facing.
When Carter said, “Tell
When Carter said, “Tell me what you need,” or “Tell me more about the problem,” she got answers that were wholly from the person’s point of view and gave deeper insight into what they were thinking and what their priorities were, she says.
You can use the “tell me” phrase with your bosses and coworkers to learn more about their needs and views in the workplace.
Why “Tell me” is
Why “Tell me” is so powerful
Carter likens the phrase to casting a giant net into the water to see how many fish you can catch.
Here are some reasons why it’s so effective.
- It gives you the other person’s view.
- You learn the other person’s definition of a situation or problem