Communication in the workplace is the exchange of ideas and thoughts concerning work, but effective workplace communication is more than that. Effective communication is clear, and the receiver understands its purpose. So, both the sender and receiver of the message are satisfied.

Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace 2022 Report reveals that out of the 31 million employees interviewed, only 13% of their leaders practiced effective workplace communication. Yet, if you can’t communicate organizational goals and operational changes, convey culture and values to new hires or those crossing teams or share business updates properly, it becomes challenging to achieve set goals.

Effective communication in the workplace will boost employee motivation, engagement and satisfaction, which will reduce workplace conflicts and enhance productivity. With a solid understanding of how crucial effective communication in the workplace is, let’s look at the top tips for effective communication, including the key communication skills you need to adopt, how to prioritize two-way communication, how to organize communication and more.

  1. Communicate the right way. First, ask these questions:
    • What is the goal?
    • Who needs to hear this?
    • How should I pass the message across?
  2. Prioritize two-way communication. Effective communication involves speaking, active listening and feedback.
  3. Build your communication skills.
    • Be clear.
    • Remain courteous.
    • Stay open-minded.
  4. Embrace the uniqueness of each employee.  Learn about each employee’s preferred communication channels and style. Then, tailor your communication methods.
  5. Have one-on-one interactions. Be intentional about relationships.
  6. Schedule weekly team meetings. Meet with team members to review each week’s accomplishments, challenges and concerns.
  7. Make time for team building. Get creative—offer employees an escape from usual activities by promoting casual interactions such as nonwork Slack channels or out-of-office events.
  8. Show appreciation. Thank employees for their brilliant ideas or for completing a task quickly. Be sure to zero in on exactly what made you happy.
  9. Get a team communication app. Utilize team communication platforms where employees can communicate, stay up to date, and collaborate on projects.
  10. Organize communication training sessions. Consider holding regular communication training sessions so that both team leaders and employees can grasp basic communication skills that improve workplace communication.

Communication in the workplace should exceed exchanging information. It should include intentional communication exercises that enhance confidence, promote engagement and improve an organization’s overall productivity. Each communication in the workplace is an opportunity to improve your skills. Be intentional and implement these tips. Soon, you will see the remarkable benefits of good communication in the workplace.

References:
Forbes Advisor (2023, May 10) Christiana Jolaoso: 10 Tips for Effective Communication in the Workplace
LinkedIn (2022, June 17) Raphael Oboravo: Importance of Good Communication in the Workplace