The critical task for the manager is to recognize potential and actual conflict situations and to use a broad set of skills to understand and resolve dysfunctional conflict. Rowitz, Chapter 9, pp. Understanding the relationship between communications and unit dependence, inter-dependence and independence within an organizational context is an essential component for a successful management practice. This understanding and skill effectiveness is a critical indicator for career advancement within complex organizations. Communication style and skill, especially the conduct of effective meetings are the building blocks for successful leadership practice and career advancement.
Communications skills are worthy of an entire course of study.
Given limited time this course will focus primarily on instrumental communication skills, those intended to result in a specific outcome. Those outcomes may be a change in organizational productivity, increased understanding of an organizational policy, effective delegation of authority to a front line employee or any other number individual, team or organizational outcome. It is goal directed communication as contrast with casual communications. Understand the components of the supervisory cycle imbedded in all positions of leadership. Fall 1994, pp.