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Communication in the Workplace: Common Issues and Best Practices
Master the art of workplace communication: from verbal cues to digital platforms, ensure clarity and efficiency in team interactions.
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In today’s workplace, we have to communicate with most of our colleagues daily. Some of us, depending on our role, several times a day. When we talk about communication in the workplace, we specifically refer to communication we do at work about work-related subjects. We do not refer to casual “water cooler” discussions and socializing with coworkers about personal matters or matters of common interest outside work.
In order to communicate effectively with our colleagues, it is very important to master the appropriate methods for each of the different communication channels that are available to us today. Concise messages in online communication channels like Slack or MS Teams suit quick updates, while detailed emails are better for complex concepts. Virtual or face-to-face meetings help with brainstorming, strategizing, or conveying important messages or ideas. Effective communication means being clear, attentive, and open to feedback.
Non-verbal cues matter in virtual and in-person conversations. This is why it’s important for all team members to have their cameras on during a virtual meeting.
Strong workplace communication tests a team's effectiveness. It transforms routine talks into impactful discussions, synchronizes efforts, and fortifies teamwork. By embracing this skill, teams establish a foundation for growth and success.
Communication in the workplace is the exchange of information, both verbal and non-verbal, between individuals or groups within an organization. This can include communications about tasks, updates on project or task progress, feedback to colleagues or managers, collaboration on tasks and ideas, receiving or providing information etc.
Good communication in the workplace is extremely important because it can boost employee motivation, engagement and satisfaction, which can reduce workplace conflicts and enhance productivity. Moreover, it nurtures trust, teamwork, and creativity among both teams and individuals, contributing to a positive and innovative work environment.
This is the use of words to share information, either in person or through phone or video calls. Verbal communication can be formal or informal, depending on the context and the relationship between the speakers.
This is the use of body language, gestures, facial expressions, eye contact, and tone of voice to convey messages. Non-verbal communication can complement or contradict verbal communication, and it can also indicate emotions, attitudes, or interests.
This is the use of text, such as emails, chat messages, reports, memos, or letters, to communicate information. Written communication can be more permanent and precise than verbal communication, but it can also lack the immediacy and feedback of verbal communication.
This is the use of images, graphs, charts, diagrams, videos, or other visual aids to communicate information. Visual communication can help simplify complex data, illustrate concepts, or enhance engagement.
This is the use of technology, such as social media, websites, blogs, podcasts, or online platforms, to communicate information. Digital communication can help reach a wider audience, increase accessibility or foster collaboration.
Some common communication problems in the workplace are:
Effective communication in the workplace is all about where, how, and when you’re communicating.
Remote work has added new challenges to workplace communication. While working remotely, we have to re-learn how to communicate in many ways. Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Zoom, and so many others, have in many ways replaced or supplemented/complimented the in-person ways we used to communicate before. Connecting with your co-workers and understanding their communication preferences and patterns is key to effective communication in the workplace.
