Improving Workplace Communication

This is one of my favorite topics because it seems like we never communicate effectively for long, and problems in workplace communication plague almost every organization. But, why? What’s wrong with all of us? Many of us, including me, love to talk, talk, and talk some more. But talking is not the same as communicating, and this is where the problem just gets started. One thing I know is true – effective communication is critical in the workplace in order to establish strong relationships and get work done. According to some studies, companies that exhibit strong communication are 50% more likely to report lower turnover compared to average companies where communication is not so great.

I live in reality and know that simply being human means we are going to make communication blunders on a daily basis. Everyone can improve how he or she communicates. We all struggle with what to say, how to say it, worry about reactions, and so on. But poor communication can lead to chaos, hurt feelings, misunderstandings and frustrations by all parties involved. So, what do we need to do to improve how we communicate in the workplace? Let’s take a look!

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Ways to Improve Workplace Communication

As I scan article after article and many of the latest and greatest business books on workplace communication, they seem to all have very similar themes. Mainly, communication is probably the most important business skill a person can have in any business and most of us have no formal training how to communicate with co-workers, colleagues and clients. I’ve never taken a college or post-graduate class on communication, have you? I haven’t even taken an online course on the subject, so I guess this applies to me as well. Thank God I’m a Catholic, Italian-Irish man who has been in punk rock and alternative bands forever and now speak professionally to thousands of people monthly.

Shut Up and Listen!

One of the best ways to communicate with other people is to shut up and listen. I say it all the time – God gave us two ears and only one mouth for a reason. Many people are terrible listeners. Instead of actively listening, meaning hearing words and emotions at the same time, they are contemplating how they are going to respond, or they interrupt the speaker, or they assume what the speaker is going to say next without listening at all. This, of course, is dysfunctional and a poor way to communicate with anyone. If you need clarification, ask for it. Most people will be honest with you. The opposite of poor listening is being fully present or being mindful. Try it. It works.

Develop Genuine Relationships

Another good rule of thumb is to establish a solid, genuine relationship with your colleagues and co-workers, because relationships matter when it comes time to communicate about easy or difficult topics. Good relationships with your clients are golden. If you have good relationships, you have trust. When people in the workplace trust you, they will come to you and raise important issues. They won’t be afraid. So, listen more, develop genuine relationships and keep an open mind.

Body Language Matters

Another great skill to have is to be aware of people’s body language, because it will tell you everything you need to know without them even opening their mouths. Body language is as important as words. Observe how people are reacting with their eyes, hands, and the rest of their body. Are they leaning into you or away from you? Are they calm or wringing their hands in anxiety? Do they maintain good eye contact with you or are their eyes rolling in their head? This is a matter of being emotionally intelligent when communicating with people at work and your clients. Be aware of body language and emotions. They matter.

Where You Talk Matters, Too

The environment is very important when it comes to communication with others in the workplace. It sets the tone, provides privacy, lightens the mood, or threatens others. Many things might be able to be communicated in the open and do not demand privacy, but use common sense. When the topic is sensitive, get some privacy. People will appreciate your discretion.

Final Words on Improving Workplace Communication

This is a topic where I can go on and on, and on some more. After almost 30 years in senior care, I can really talk about talking and communicate about communication. There is the bad, the ugly and everything in between. But, the bottom line is this – if you want to be successful, if you want to make a difference, if you want to be a part of a great team of professionals, and serve clients as best you can, you must continue learning how to communicate. This is an area of our professional lives that can be continually improved and should be. Why not be the best you can, no matter where you work?