Communication in the Workplace

 

‘Communication is the process of transmitting information and common understanding from one person to another. Communication in the workplace is critical to establishing and maintaining quality working relationships in organizations. (Oppong, A.A.A. and Birikorang, E.A. 2014,p.208).

Communication can be defined as the process of transmitting information and common understanding from one person to another (Keyton, 2011). It is a combination of listening and speaking. sharing thoughts, ideas, emotions, and understanding each other properly without miscommunication, able to listen to others, as well as successfully relay their own ideas and opinions.

How important communication

A company is always working as a team. To build a better outcome communication should be strong among the internal staff members. There are Ways to Create Effective Communication in the Workplace.

1.    Open Meeting
2.    Emails
3.    One on One
4.    Create a Receptive Atmosphere
5.    Communication via Training
6.    Display Confidence and Seriousness
7.    Use Simple Words
8.    Use Visuals
9.    Listen to Your Team Members
10.  Use Body Language
11.  Act Out Your Message
12.  Use the Appropriate Tone of Voice
13.  Avoid Unnecessary Repetition
14.  Use Presentations
15.  Be Humorous
16.  Be Articulate
17.  Avoid Mumbling
18.  Encourage Feedback
19.  Gesticulate
20.  Be Appreciative

 

Advantages of communication

1. Building trust

Effective communication cultivates trust with others. Ability to listen attentively and trust will extend to your team and they will feel as though they can trust their teammates to fulfill their duties and responsibilities.

 

2. Preventing or resolving problems

The ability to communicate effectively plays a large role in resolving conflicts and preventing potential ones from arising.

 

3. Providing clearness and direction

With effective communication skills, you’re able to deliver clear expectations and objectives for your team.

 

4. Creates better relationships

Good communication also improves relationships, both with employees and in your personal life with friends and family members. Listening carefully and offering quality feedback helps people to feel heard and understood.

 

5. Increases engagement

With people feeling more confident in their work and in their understanding of what they need to do, they become more engaged with their work as a whole.

 

6. Improves productivity

When team members understand their roles, the roles of others and your expectations, they can focus more on their work and less on workplace issues.

 

7. Promotes team building

With improved communication, team members will be better able to rely on each other. You will not have one team member feel as though they have to carry the entire group.

 

Conclusion

Good communication skills can play an important role in nurturing positive work experiences for the entire team. As people feel listened to and understood by you, you naturally improve your work environment and will help eliminate conflicts and confusion.

 

References

Oppong, A.A.A. and Birikorang, E.A. (2014) COMMUNICATION IN THE WORKPLACE: GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVING EFFECTIVENESS. Global Institute for Research & Education, 3(5) 208-213.

Belonwu, V. (2013) 20 Ways to Communicate Effectively With Your Team.[online]: Small Business Trends. Available from: https://smallbiztrends.com/2013/11/20-ways-to-communicate-effectively-in-the-workplace.html [Accessed 27 March 2021].