STP Unit 2: Oral and Written Communication

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Unit 2 equips supervisors with the communication skills essential for effective leadership in construction. The emphasis is on oral, written, and non-verbal communication, as well as conflict resolution and motivation strategies. Supervisors learn to use communication to direct crews, maintain documentation, and foster strong working relationships.

1. The Supervisor as a Communicator
 

• Supervisors spend most of their time communicating with crews, management, owners, and subcontractors.
   
• Communication is a two-way process involving speaking, listening, and confirming understanding.
   
• Effective communication improves productivity, safety, and morale.
   

2. Barriers to Effective Communication
 

• Barriers include noise, distractions, unclear language, assumptions, and cultural differences.
   
• Recognizing personal habits that hinder understanding is a key skill.
   
• Miscommunication can lead to costly rework and unsafe conditions.
   

3. Oral Communication Skills
 

• Giving clear instructions and checking for understanding.
   
• Active listening: questioning, paraphrasing, confirming.
   
• Non-verbal cues: body language, tone, and posture.
   
• Leading toolbox talks, meetings, and one-on-one interactions effectively.
   

4. Written Communication Skills
 

• Importance of accurate, professional written documentation on jobsites.
   
• Core documents: daily reports, memos, RFIs, emails, change orders, and progress reports.
   
• Best practices: clarity, conciseness, accuracy, and professionalism.
   
• Exercises: correcting poorly written reports, drafting clearer instructions, documenting incidents.
   

5. Conflict Management Through Communication
 

• Session 4 adds emphasis here: supervisors practice identifying conflict triggers and applying de-escalation techniques.
   
• Conflict resolution models: Listen – Clarify – Address – Resolve.
   
• The role of fairness, respect, and neutrality when mediating disputes.
   
• Using communication to prevent small disagreements from escalating.
   

6. Communicating for Motivation and Teamwork
 

• How recognition, encouragement, and constructive feedback motivate workers.
   
• Tailoring communication to individuals vs. groups.
   
• Trust-building through consistency and transparency.
   
• Linking communication to team cohesion and productivity.
   

7. Technology in Communication
 

• Effective use of email, text, and digital project platforms.
   
• Balancing speed with professionalism.
   
• Avoiding pitfalls like tone misinterpretation and poor documentation in texts or chats.
   

By the end of Unit 2, participants will be able to:

• Identify and overcome communication barriers.
   
• Apply oral and active listening skills to improve understanding and reduce errors.
   
• Write professional, accurate, and legally defensible documentation.
   
• Use communication as a tool for conflict resolution and negotiation.
   
• Communicate in ways that motivate individuals and strengthen teams.
   
• Apply professional standards when using digital communication methods.
   

• Case Studies: Miscommunication leading to errors, jobsite disputes, poor reporting practices.
   
• Worksheets & Assignments: Writing exercises, listening logs, conflict role plays.
   
• Role Play & Group Work: Toolbox talk simulations, report drafting, conflict mediation scenarios.