Impactful Communication: Chiedza Nziramasanga Of Transformative Workplace Investigations On 5 Essential Techniques for Becoming an Effective Communicator
An Interview With Athalia Monae
Appreciate silence: Silence is a powerful ally in communication. I’ve learned not to rush through conversations. Embracing pauses allows individuals the opportunity to collect their thoughts and share honestly.
In an age dominated by digital communication, the power of articulate and effective verbal communication cannot be understated. Whether it’s delivering a keynote address, leading a team meeting, or engaging in a one-on-one conversation, impactful speaking can open doors, inspire change, and create lasting impressions. But what truly sets apart an effective communicator? What techniques and nuances elevate a speech from mundane to memorable? As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Chiedza Nziramasanga.
Chiedza Nziramasanga is the Owner and Founder of Transformative Workplace Investigations, a workplace investigations training and consulting firm. Her mission is to empower organizations to conduct internal investigations with a commitment to equity, transparency and accountability. By fostering these principles, she helps organizations enhance employee trust, credibility, and engagement throughout the investigative process, enabling them to gather comprehensive insights into workplace issues.
Drawing from a wealth of experience as a former employment attorney, Chiedza brings a unique perspective to workplace dynamics. With years of advocating for clients in cases involving workplace discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and wage theft, she is adept in navigating the complexities of today’s work environment.
Chiedza’s passion lies in transforming workplace culture, creating an environment where both employees and organizations can thrive.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series. Before we dive into our discussion about communication, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share with us the backstory about what brought you to your specific career path?
I’d say it’s been a combination of God’s guidance and personal life experiences that have led me to where I am now in my career. I started my career as an Assistant Attorney General in Antitrust. During that time, I faced my share of bias and microaggressions in the legal field, which made me want to bring about positive change in workplaces. This led me to transition into plaintiff’s side employment practice, where I represented individuals facing workplace injustices, such as discrimination, harassment and retaliation, deepening my commitment to equitable and inclusive workplaces.
During my time in private practice, I realized the incredible potential of workplace investigations. They provided a way to directly impact workplace culture by resolving conflicts, addressing skill gaps, and tackling systemic issues, all with the aim of creating more positive work environments. This led me to make yet another shift into the role of a workplace investigator.
Here, I have been able to use my legal background and my dedication to fairness to help organizations work through their workplace issues and improve the overall atmosphere. It’s been a journey full of purpose, and it’s allowed me to play a part in making workplaces where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career?
I’ll never forget a one-on-one with a former boss early in my career. During that conversation, I enthusiastically shared my five-year vision for my career and my goals for growth within the organization. I had expected to be met with a supportive and encouraging response, but instead was met with what felt like a splash of cold water when he advised me, “If that’s where you see your career going in the next 5 years, you may need to explore opportunities elsewhere.”
At the time, I was disappointed and disheartened. However, looking back, I’ve come to appreciate the gift of transparency that my former boss gave me in that moment, even though it was painful to hear at the time. This experience has since made me a fierce advocate for transparency in the workplace.
His candid feedback prompted me to reevaluate my career goals, rethink my priorities, and make choices that were aligned for me. Ultimately, that moment of transparency set me on a path to where I am today, much happier and more fulfilled.
I’ll add that transparency in the workplace doesn’t always come from the words people say, but the way they treat you. Unfortunately, I’ve also learned this lesson the hard way. Even so, these experiences have taught me a valuable lesson: transparency in the workplace is a leader’s greatest gift to their employees. While it may not always be easy to deliver or receive, it empowers individuals to make more informed and aligned decisions.
You are a successful business leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
Thank you! I’m still learning to embrace my role as a leader, and the three character traits that have played a key role in my journey thus far, are: resilience, empathy, and hard work.
My journey as a first-generation American has been marked by resilience. My grandfather immigrated to the U.S. in the 1960s from Zimbabwe, bringing my mother and her siblings with him. They faced numerous challenges, from cultural adjustments to financial hardships. Growing up, I witnessed the determination of my family, particularly my mother, who raised me as a single parent. Despite the odds stacked against her, she worked tirelessly to provide for our family and create a better life. Her resilience in the face of adversity inspired me to persevere in my own pursuits, and I often reflect on the sacrifices made by my family as I navigate the challenges of leadership.
My personal experiences with microaggressions and bias in the workplace have given me a deep sense of empathy. I’ve faced moments where I yearned for a sense of belonging and inclusion, which made me acutely aware of the importance of empathy in leadership. These experiences have allowed me to relate to and connect with others who may be going through similar struggles. I’ve made it a priority to create an inclusive work environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds can thrive. My empathy helps me understand the unique challenges that people may face and drives me to foster a workplace culture built on respect and understanding.
The value of hard work was instilled in me from a young age by my single mother. She worked long hours to provide for our family, and her relentless dedication to succeeding in her career taught me the importance of putting in the effort to achieve one’s goals. This work ethic has been the foundation for my success. It’s about setting goals, showing up consistently, and persistently striving for improvement. The lessons I learned from my mother continue to guide me as a leader.
Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview. Let’s begin with a basic definition so that we are all on the same page. How would you define an “Effective Communicator?” What are the characteristics of an effective communicator?
I’d define an effective communicator as someone who can convey information in a clear, concise and engaging manner. It’s not just about speaking; it’s about being a good listener too, and having the capacity to understand different viewpoints and perspectives.
Being an effective communicator means you’ve got a few superpowers:
- The gift of clarity: You can get your message across in a way that’s straightforward and easy to understand.
- The gift of empathy: You’re able to understand where others are coming from, and that helps you connect with them on a deeper level.
- The gift of adaptability: You know how to adjust your communication style to fit the situation and audience.
How can one tailor their communication style to different audiences or situations?
Communication is a two-way street. It involves not only speaking, but also active listening, asking questions, seeking feedback, and paying attention to non-verbal cues. By treating communication as an exchange, you’re able to gauge your audience’s response and pivot your approach as needed. This not only builds understanding, but also strengthens the connection between you and your audience.
Can you provide an example of a time when you had to adapt your communication style to reach a particular audience successfully?
In a recent workplace investigation, I encountered a situation where an employee was incredibly reluctant to share their experiences. The issue at hand was sensitive, and the employee had concerns about potential repercussions and privacy. I knew it was important to adapt my communication style to gain their trust and encourage them to open up.
Initially, I decided to actively listen, giving them the space to express themselves at their own pace. But it was clear from their body language that they were extremely nervous and uncomfortable, which made them withdraw even further.
I quickly realized I needed to pivot and began trying to connect with this individual on a more personal level. I started asking them questions about their background, their family, and their hobbies. By shifting the direction of the conversation, I was able to get to know them as a person outside of the work context. This not only helped me understand their unique background and experiences but also showed that I genuinely cared about them as an individual. Over time, as the conversation transitioned from personal matters to the workplace issues, the employee became more comfortable and started sharing their experiences and concerns more openly.
This experience highlighted for me the importance of being flexible in communication and adapting in real-time to build trust and rapport, especially in delicate situations like workplace investigations. It’s a skill that I’m constantly honing, as these scenarios are not uncommon, and each one offers its unique challenges.
How do you handle difficult or sensitive conversations while maintaining open and effective communication?
Handling difficult or sensitive conversations while maintaining open and effective communication can be challenging, but I’ve found a few strategies that I stand by. Preparation — I make sure I have a clear understanding of the issue and my goals for the conversation. Being open–minded — I try to approach the conversation with an open and non-judgmental attitude. It’s important to create a safe space where others feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions. And this last one may make me sound like a broken record, but empathy — I strive to understand other people’s perspectives and feelings, even if I don’t necessarily agree with them. I’ve found that empathy is crucial because it helps build trust and a more constructive dialogue.
In your experience, how does storytelling play a role in impactful speaking? Why do you think stories are effective in communication?
Storytelling plays a major role in impactful speaking, and in my role as a workplace investigator, I’ve found it to be an essential tool. When I’m tasked with piecing together incidents or understanding the dynamics within an organization, stories provide invaluable insights. They give me a window into people’s mindsets, emotions, and motivations. I then weave these individual stories together into a cohesive narrative that unveils what truly happened.
I like to think of stories as the bridges that connect us on an emotional level, allowing us to relate to one another and understand different experiences. Whether it’s a complainant sharing their perspective or a witness offering observations, stories humanize complex situations, making it easier to navigate sensitive discussions. I think it’s the emotional aspect, that provides us with a sense of meaning and connection, that makes storytelling so effective.
What are your “5 Essential Techniques for Becoming an Effective Communicator”?
1 . Be clear and direct: In the world of workplace investigations, clarity is key. Avoiding jargon and using plain language ensures that everyone involved understands the process and their roles. This commitment to clarity not only reduces confusion but also fosters transparency, which is essential for successful communication.
When I transitioned from the legal world to the world of workplace investigations, I was used to throwing around legal terminology. However, I quickly realized that this jargon often left people confused, creating a barrier in communication. It was a reminder that connecting with individuals meant speaking in terms they could understand, rather than relying on language that could leave them feeling out of touch.
2 . Be a human: Communication involves real people with real emotions. Particularly in the workplace context, it’s important to establish connection and rapport. I often do this by expressing empathy, “I understand that this situation may be incredibly stressful,” and showing appreciation for participant contributions, “I appreciate your willingness to share your concerns.” It’s this human touch that sets the stage for open conversations.
3 . Read the room: Actions often speak louder than words. As an investigator, I’ve learned to be attuned to non-verbal signals like body language and emotional cues to help me adapt my approach and ensure those I’m communicating with feel heard and understood.
4 . Mirroring: Adjusting tone and communication style to match that of the person you’re speaking with can be an effective technique, depending on the context. For example, using a formal or informal tone, based on the style used by the other person. This can help build rapport and help others feel comfortable. Flexibility is key to successful engagement, especially when dealing with various stakeholders and addressing issues of positionality.
5 . Appreciate silence: Silence is a powerful ally in communication. I’ve learned not to rush through conversations. Embracing pauses allows individuals the opportunity to collect their thoughts and share honestly.
How do you integrate non-verbal cues into your communication? Can you provide an example of its importance?
Non-verbal cues play a key role in my communication toolkit. Nodding, leaning in, and maintaining eye contact are my go-to strategies to demonstrate engagement and sincere interest in what others are sharing. These cues go a long way in conveying that I genuinely care about their perspectives and experiences. I’ve found these cues also help to disarm those who may initially be hesitant to open up.
Non-verbal cues also help individuals become more engaged in the conversation, as they perceive that I’m fully present and focused on what they’re saying. They help create an environment that makes them feel comfortable and encourages them to share their thoughts, feelings and experiences more openly, particularly in sensitive situations like workplace investigations.
How has digital communication changed the way you convey your messages? Are there any specific challenges or advantages you’ve encountered?
In today’s world, remote investigation interviews have become the norm. While they certainly add an element of convenience and accessibility, one significant hurdle is the absence of non-verbal cues that we often rely on during in-person interactions. Without these cues like body language, it can be challenging to gauge the interviewee’s state or detect nuances in their responses.
Public speaking is a common fear. What techniques or strategies do you recommend to manage and overcome stage fright?
Overcoming stage fright is hard! This is something I still struggle with. Talking about it takes me back to being 4 years old at my dance recital when the stage lights came on, and I stood there frozen, forgetting the entire routine. Over the years, I’ve honed some effective strategies to combat this anxiety. My go-to solutions include practice, I make sure I know my content inside out. Visualization is another powerful tool — I either mentally rehearse my presentation or physically practice it in the actual space, even if it’s just an empty Zoom room. Additionally, I find that being transparent about my nerves with the audience, if I’m feeling them, and actively engaging with my listeners eases the pressure and allows me to respond to their feedback, transforming the experience into a more engaging one. While it’s something I still deal with, these strategies have really helped me tame my stage fright.
What additional resources do you recommend for individuals looking to improve communication skills?
The great thing about improving your communication is that it can be done for free. You can find a wealth of free resources online, like articles, videos, and books, with tips to sharpen your communication skills. One of the most practical and cost-free ways to get better at it is to practice with friends or family. If you have kids, they’re fantastic partners in this; they’re natural storytellers and endlessly curious. Personally, I love making up stories for my 4-year-old, which has significantly improved my storytelling skills. Plus, answering her never-ending “why questions” has made me a pro at thinking on my feet and responding spontaneously.
You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)
If I could start a movement to bring the most good to the largest number of people, it would undoubtedly revolve around my mission to enhance workplace culture. Workplaces are where people spend the majority of their waking hours, and it’s important that these environments embrace equity, transparency, and accountability. The idea is simple but transformative: people should be able to show up to a place where the culture empowers them to be their best selves and do their best work. This mission aims to create workplaces where everyone feels supported, valued, and empowered. It’s a movement dedicated to transforming workplaces into spaces where respect, equity, and inclusion are not just buzzwords but a lived reality.
How can our readers further follow you online?
Readers can connect with me through my website and blog, www.transformativeinvestigations.com, where I regularly share insights on workplace investigations. For those seeking more in-depth information and updates, they can join my weekly newsletter, where I provide investigation tips, trends, and advice directly to their inbox. I’m also active on LinkedIn, so feel free to follow me there for content and conversations on workplace culture and investigations.
Thank you for the time you spent sharing these fantastic insights. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
Thank you for the opportunity to share! I hope people will find these tips helpful as we work together to build a community of effective communicators.
About the Interviewer: Athalia Monae is a product creator, published author, entrepreneur, advocate for Feed Our Starving Children, contributing writer for Entrepreneur Media, and founder of Pouches By Alahta.
