Communication is a key factor in many aspects of life. Often times, miscommunication impacts work in a negative way. However, proper communication assures that everybody is on the same page. Good communication improves relationships not only with co-workers but with your family and friends too. Effective workplace communication for what you need makes life and work flow easily.
How you communicate with co-workers need careful consideration. For example, what is the right way to communicate? Do you send a text message or email? Are you communicating enough information? Is your method of workplace communication accessible?
Communication goes beyond writing or speaking. Here are some tips to make you an effective communicator at work.
1. Listen
Workplace communication is not just about writing a good email or sending a timely text message. Effective communication begins with listening. One mistake in listening could lead to errors in communication which could lead to problems in the workplace. This is why listening carefully is very important. One mistake people frequently make is talking over each other. To become an effective communicator and better listener, it is better to let a person finish talking before responding. When you do not fully listen to a person, key information could be lost which can lead to blunders and miscommunication.
2. Pay Attention To Body Language
Sometimes people say a great deal without opening their mouths. Communication is not just about talking because a great deal of it takes place non-verbally. We can communicate with expressions on our faces, gestures and body language. When communicating with other people, always make the best impression. Make eye contact, stand tall or sit up straight or give firm handshakes. This type of behavior conveys self-confidence. When you are confident you colleagues know it.
3. Get to The Point
When at work, people are normally busy including your colleagues. There are times when background information is needed and there are times when they are not. Know the appropriate instances where you need to impart background. Getting to the point quickly will prevent your audience from getting bored. A long winded email is not always alright. In fact, some people include a lengthy introduction or start with a totally unrelated subject. People who do this are not only wasting their time but their co-workers too. Be direct in all forms of workplace communication and raise 3 to 4 points if needed. Some people appreciate small talk but it is always better to get to the point especially in important matters.
4. Message Sent and Message Received Is Not Always The Same
Many negative situations arise and can be avoided if people do not make wrong assumptions after reading a text or email. The problem with written communication is that we are our own filter. We are usually the ones to determine the tone of the communication and conclude whether it is positive or negative. The problem arises when we determine that the tone is negative even if there is none. Giving color or reading a certain missive in a different light is natural because we all have different experiences and react differently to each one. When this happens, it is better to step back and take a moment to calm down. Remember that tone cannot be conveyed in emails and text. If you’re confused, ask for a face-to-face meeting. This can deflect any negative connotations and help clear up the air so that communication between people is always clear. It is unprofessional to make something out of nothing.
5. Know Your Audience
People like to communicate a certain way. For example, there are many people on top that prefer to talk to their people face-to-face rather than a teleconference. There are people who prefer communication via email while others are alright being contacted through text or a mobile phone call. If a co-worker is struggling to finish drafts in the computer, wouldn’t it be better to print a hard copy so to make editing faster? Knowing their preferred method of communication will help speed up response. Aside from this, knowing your audience helps things to run smoothly in the office.
Mastering communication strategies will you a better communicator. By listening, figuring out non-verbal cues, knowing preferred ways of communication, getting to the point quickly and not making assumptions will show that you are a reliable employee.
