Are you conscious of what you say at work? Alfonso Bucero definitely does. He spoke at the PMI Global Congress EMEA in Dublin about why we should be careful with our words.
Bucero stated, “During many years as project manager, I wasn’t conscious of the consequences of the words that I used with my customers, team members, and other stakeholders.” “More often than you think, your words can have greater power than you realize.” Your beliefs create your reality.”
He explained that people are susceptible to negative phrases and how they feel about your project and you. The right words can make a positive impression on your team and help you achieve project success.
“A leader cannot be negative in his sessions. Negativity transmits negativity.” Leaders achieve positive results.
Alfonso Bucero8 Phrases for Project Communications
Bucero provided us with a list of 8 phrases that we could use in our project communications. These are:
I made a mistake. This is when you acknowledge that you made a mistake and show you can learn from it.
I can
I believe
I will respect
Thank you, I appreciate it
I want you to work in my team
I’m listening
I need you (to collaborate)
He said, “Thank you is a simple word, it’s cheap, but it’s not used as much in project management.” My view is that project managers must take care of people. Saying thanks certainly helps.
Read Next: Here are 15 easy ways to celebrate your success at work.
Although he didn’t mention it in his presentation, the inference was that being optimistic is not the same as lying about the status or work in progress. Negative news can be received or given, but it is important to express your feelings positively with others. Don’t complain about your coworkers.
As a leader, “Nobody cares about you problems.” They are your problems.
Alfonso BuceroUse language for accountability
Bucero stated, “Sometimes the only path to progress in life and to achieve an ambition goal is to cut all avenues for retreat.”
This was how he wrote his first book. He wrote to his friends announcing that he would complete the book by a specific date. He made his goals public to create accountability for himself. If he missed his deadline, others could hold him accountable.
He said, “If you can write your particular commitment down, you will be capable of achieving it.” “The human being is unlimited.”
Make sure everyone is accountable for achieving your work goals. This can be combined with team ground rules that will guide how you work together. Words can be used to create a culture that is results-oriented. They help manage expectations and set them.
Take a look at what you have to say
Non-verbal messages can often contradict verbal messages. Bucero stated that body language is important. “Body language accounts for more than 65% of your communication. It is essential in Spanish culture that you use your hands and eyes. However, please don’t contradict the verbal messages.
He said, “Remember that your thoughts have more power than you realize.” “You can’t keep repeating negative phrases and expect to be a high achiever.” It is up to each of you to speak in a manner that will help you get to where you want to go.
Next steps
Do you want to explore this topic? These are some steps you can take to improve your communication skills.
Think about the phrases you use most often. Ask your colleagues what phrases they hear you use the most. These are the things you want to be remembered for?
Get a template for a project communication plan
Project Management Rebels is a mentoring and learning community that you can join to help you develop your personal style. You also get to meet twice per month with other project managers.
