How to Coach Yourself and Others Techniques For Coaching | Page 106

you note to participants. This can help to build relationships. Sometimes a hand written note is greatly appreciated. * Get to know and as much as possible understand the needs, issues, and passions of all the members of the coalition and stake holders in and out of the coalition. * You are more likely to have positive influences over a friend, than an enemy. * Emphasize both process and product. Communicate * For many people the process is as important, and sometimes even more important, than the results. Everyone needs to be heard. * Serving refreshments or light snacks can open help to relax people and open communication. * Use common language. One of the most important building blocks of collaboration and consensus is communication. Sometimes our differences are magnified in the words we choose when we come together. At times this is because we get used to using certain words, phrases, or acronyms (words formed from the first letter of each word in a phrase such as USA), with our peers, because these words save time and helps us feel like we fit into a group. When we come together with other people from different backgrounds, we sometimes forget that others may not understand some of the language that we use. Sometimes, some people may use words, phrases, or acronyms, that others may not understand on purpose. This can be a way to appear superior to others or to hide behind language as a way of self-protection. It is important to understand that we all have fears and concerns and that part of the purpose of this process is to overcome and move beyond fears and concerns together. When meeting together, use words, and phrases that all will 414