Communication in the workplace is key to productivity, to keeping channels open between lower and upper level employees, and creating a cohesive environment that has staff that are always on the same page.
Good communication alleviates tension, reduces issues and makes the process of carrying out tasks simpler and more streamlined.
If you’re battling with inter-staff communication consider the following options and choose the ones that work for you. Sometimes it means stepping outside your comfort zone, but it will pay off and be as rewarding as playing the Bingo Canada has to offer.
Face-to-Face Meetings
F2F meetings can be a great way to really communicate, but make sure that everyone has a chance to speak. It’s a meeting, not a lecture, so you need to get buy-in from all attendees who want to contribute. Some people may also hold back or be shy, so be patient with them.
Conference Call
Con calls can be tricky, but they are a great way of ensuring that all parties get to hear what needs to be said, and can offer their own thoughts too. If you are working across time zones or countries, a weekly catch up con call makes all the difference to keeping the lines of communication open.
If you need a more formal option then email works well too. This way you can ensure everyone receives the same information, and anyone who wants to reply can weigh in too.
One on One
Sometimes the best way to communicate with staff is on a one to one basis. This is especially true if there is a sensitive or serious issue that needs to e discussed. Even as the boss, however, the idea of a one on one is not to strike fear into an employees heart, but to offer them a safe space where a matter or course of action can be discussed openly.
Now that we’ve looked at the best ways to communicate, lets examine a few tips that help you get your message across, be heard and hear others.
Be Confident
If you have confidence in what you are saying, then others will feel confident too.
Be Serious
But not too serious. Make sure that staff understand what you are saying and follow through. If you joke a bit too much or are too casual they make not have the same investment.
Keep It Simple
You don’t need to use big words or convoluted terminology to get your point across. Keep communications clear, simple and concise and make sure everyone understands what you are saying.
Get Graphic
Wherever possible, use graphics, charts or visual aids to illustrate your point. People will get a better idea as to what you’re talking about, and it has been prove that visual aids make things more memorable.
Listen
Even if you are leading the meeting, listen to what others have to say. Valuable input will come your way, and you’ll need to focus on what other people are talking about too.