Workplace communication isn’t easy.
Everything, from personal to business relationships, hinges on communication. Communicate too little, too much, or incorrectly and everything you’ve worked for can fall apart.
When people communicate properly, in a way that makes all parties feel heard, even conflict and criticism can be constructive and lead to positive results.
Humans are social creatures by nature. We work together, play together, and live together. Introverted or extroverted, we need to communicate on a daily basis with those around us.
Verbal and non verbal, quietly or loudly, we communicate at work with our co-workers, employees, and leaders. We communicate at home with our families and friends. We’ve been communicating our whole lives. And we’re going to keep on communicating.
In business, a lack of workplace communication is sometimes inexplicable yet most always detrimental. People are hired for jobs that they are knowledgeable about, that they have the skills to perform. But if they can’t interact with those around them in a productive manner – then not much benefit is really achieved.
Whenever we speak to someone, we run the risk of not being able to get our point across without sending our message through numerous filters, like personal biases, difficult mediums, and external distractions.
The failure to communicate, so to speak, is one of the number one reasons for poor organizational culture, inefficiency, lost productivity, decreased engagement and reduced customer satisfaction. A lack of communication can lead to decreased innovation and negatively impact the bottom line.
But don’t forget the positive feedback as well. Whether it’s creating a reward for outstanding work or just a simple “well done,” people need positive reinforcement just as much as critique. Not all people are the same. There’s no one key for universal success when it comes to constructive criticism – it comes down to having an understanding of what motivates individuals and knowing how they respond best to feedback.
Adapting style may be necessary for success. Be respectful of the different ways people communicate and respond in kind within reason. It all comes back to getting to know the people you’re communicating with and being able to flex your communication style and approach for a given audience.
Some even suggest that with every office conversation, listen like there’s going to be a pop quiz at the end, and this skill can make or break your grade. Once you really listen, don’t neglect to also take action and follow-up as appropriate.
These few suggestions seem easy, but when put into practice, often it’s easier said than done.
Just remember, good communication leads to increased performance, employee engagement and retention, and a high performing culture.
And all of those lead to increased profits and long-term sustainability. So developing good communication skills and a good communication strategy is definitely worth it in the long run!
This was originally published on the Tolero Think Tank blog.