Here’s a sneak peak excerpt from a column by Jeff Mowatt ( JeffMowatt.com ) on five ways to improve office politics and employee interactions.
Talk in person
Too often, we initiate communications to other departments in writing when we should opt for face-to-face conversations. When you have a new request or procedure that requires explaining, begin by talking in person to that department’s key influencers. Ask for their advice – literally. That word lowers their defenses and helps generate buy-in. Ask who else you should be talking to on their team – including any naysayers. Finally, when you decide upon the most likely to be accepted course of action, send a short written summary; more as a confirmation than as a proposal or directive.