02.02.22 Central/West: Team Communication 

In every part of an organization, our ability to perform our job responsibilities depends in our ability to work effectively as a member of a team. In many cases, members of a team are dispersed – across shifts, across programs, across geography.  Positive relationships, collaboration, communication, team development, and conflict resolution are essential to a happy and effective team. Teams bring together people with diverse experiences, opinions, and worldviews. These differences make a team stronger but can also lead to miscommunication. As direct support professionals, it is especially important to maintain clear and respectful communication with all members of one’s team. The strength of a team directly affects the quality of life of the people we support and makes our jobs more fun! 

This training will identify the building blocks of communication and how they strengthen a supportive and collaborative work environment. Attendees will learn tips for effective communication within formal and informal teams and across a variety of environments and relationships. Attendees will be challenged to identify their own communication strengths, explore strategies to develop new skills with the support of their team, and how to recognize conflict as an opportunity for learning and trust-building.  NOTE: this training satisfies the DDS NEO requirement for state-operated program staff.