Every successful workplace has one secret. It’s effective communication. And it makes sense because communication is vital in every aspect of life. Messages have to be sent across and understood by all members of the team so they can carry out the needed tasks.
If an office has effective communication strategies, they’re more likely to succeed in their line of work. Here are some tips to help you improve your communication in the workplace.
Be open
The organizational culture should always welcome communication and insight. An environment where employees feel that they can openly voice out about their opinions and ideas is bound to be very productive. That’s because everyone is learning from each other and working together to foster the company’s growth.
But this is not the case for offices where speaking up seems like a taboo. In the corporate setting, it’s almost natural for employees to feel afraid or ashamed to voice out their thoughts. But it’s your job to start being open and creating a communication-friendly environment where everyone exchanges insights and ideas.
Use a standard and straightforward communications platform
Some offices are still going old school and making use of emails to communicate with the employees. Others opt to talk personally and walk several steps to reach the person they want to speak to.
Although face-to-face communication is essential and healthy, you need a platform where you and your team can converse at ease. Think about it. You don’t need to walk to the other side of the room to deliver a straightforward message, right?
Save time, energy, and effort by using a standard and straightforward communication platform where every employee can communicate instantly, effectively, and efficiently. You might even consider buying used phones for your team to serve as the work phones they use when they’re out of the office. That way, you can communicate with them wherever they are in Salt Lake City.
Hold meetings often
Many bosses think that meetings are a waste of time. That’s a mindset that can block effective communication. Meetings are very beneficial for teams because it allows them to bring up any new information, concerns, ideas, etc.
Having frequent meetings with your team keeps everyone on tabs as to things they need to know and tasks they need to accomplish. It’s also an excellent way to get the team’s insights on plans and points for improvement. Every employee should be allowed to use his or her voice, and to give their feedback on anything that concerns the company. Who knows, they might have brilliant ideas that you never even thought of.
Have an open-door policy
Many employees feel like their managers, superiors, or bosses are unapproachable. If they have this sentiment, then it’s a crucial hindrance to effective communication. When employees are afraid to talk to their superiors, they end up following whatever is asked of them without having the opportunity to give their feedback — and that feedback is necessary.
Let your team know that they can come to you and raise concerns about anything. Keep your office door open so that the employees can feel at ease to approach you. Practice your non-verbal cues as well. Smile, listen and show them that you’re genuinely interested and open to what they have to say.
Effective communications will go a long way in helping a business succeed. It improves the workflow and productivity of the team while also allowing everyone to gain insights and new ideas that will foster the growth of the company. If you’re currently using some form of employee time tracking software, most come with communication options which can be used to quickly disseminate information to all or a group of employees.