What interpersonal skill should a manager use when discussing agreed-upon expectations?

When discussing agreed-upon expectations, stating your purpose clearly is crucial for effective communication. This skill ensures that everyone involved has a mutual understanding of the goals and objectives being discussed. By articulating the purpose clearly, the manager sets a foundation for the conversation that helps to align the team’s focus and minimizes misunderstandings. This clarity facilitates more productive discussions, encourages participation, and fosters accountability.

Active listening, empathizing, and deferring judgment are also valuable interpersonal skills, but they serve different roles in communication. While they can enhance the conversation and build rapport, being clear about one's purpose directly addresses the necessity of setting expectations at the outset of any discussion. Clarity in purpose is essential for establishing what is expected of each team member and for ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding the objectives to be met.