Fireside Chat – Tusk-tastic team-unication

The theme for this Fireside Chat was Tusk-tastic Team-unication, focusing on the nuances of mentoring dynamics, effective communication within teams, and the reciprocal roles of mentor and mentee. Mandy Lobley adeptly led the discussion, posing thought-provoking questions to the esteemed panel consisting of Professors Joanne Said and Natalie Hannan, Dr. Michael Assis and PhD student Alice Poulton.

The Department expresses sincere gratitude to the panellists for their candid and courageous sharing of insights, experiences and invaluable advice.

Key takeaways from the discussion include:

• Clear is kind: Communicating directly and clearly benefits all involved. Whether navigating difficult conversations or routine work exchanges, articulate communication, supplemented by follow-up emails outlining actionable steps, enhances collaboration. Establishing upfront communication boundaries ensures efficient coordination.
• Preparation is key: Recognising the value of time, preparation before meetings with supervisors, colleagues, or collaborators streamlines discussions. Agendas or talking points help maintain focus, while note-taking and post-meeting summaries consolidate outcomes and action items.
• Feedback = Care: Embrace feedback as your mentor's genuine interest in your professional development. If you are delivering feedback you might want to signpost it, possibly ask do you want me to give you feedback as we go along or at the end. You could also try role playing how you are going to engage with a colleague or conduct a difficult conversation.
• Assume the best: In instances where feedback may seem less constructive, create a space that is curious rather than judgmental. Pause, reflect, and respond thoughtfully, fostering an environment conducive to open dialogue and mutual understanding.

A poignant reflection shared by a department member, quoting Maya Angelou, encapsulated the essence of the discussion: “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”