Getting communication right can be challenging whether your employees are working remotely or in the office. It takes time and effort. However, it’s essential for building and maintaining strong relationships and for achieving short and long-term results. In this blog, we will explore how to communicate effectively and address workplace issues.

What is effective communication?

Effective communication in the workplace involves sharing important information, ideas, knowledge, problem-solving, and giving and receiving constructive feedback. It’s about more than just talking; it’s about ensuring the message is clear and fully understood by speaking, active listening, using body language, and emotional intelligence.

Why is effective communication important?

There are many reasons to invest time and energy into improving employee communication. Effective communication will increase employee engagement and satisfaction, boost employee motivation, encourage better collaboration and teamwork, build a healthy company culture, and foster trust, which will reduce miscommunication and workplace conflicts.

When teams can communicate effectively with each other, they will be able to collaborate better and work together to reach common goals more efficiently, which increases productivity and drives better results. While conflict is inevitable in work environments, poor communication is often the main cause. To manage and resolve conflicts effectively, it’s crucial that communication is open. Encourage employees to talk about work issues; listen carefully and respond to questions or concerns with actions or answers, let them express their feelings, and find solutions to satisfy needs.

How can we communicate effectively?

There are several forms of communication people use daily, including:

  • Verbal communication: This involves using speech to share information. This may be during meetings, one-to-ones, phone calls, or video conferences.
  • Non-verbal communication: This involves face-to-face communication without using speech. For example, people communicate through facial expressions, nodding, hand gestures, tone of voice, and body language.
  • Written communication: This involves exchanging information with others using words and numbers, such as through emails or reports.
  • Visual communication: This involves using aids such as graphs and charts to communicate information to people. This may be used through presentations or internal communication tools such as the intranet, internal newsletters, or posters.

The way people communicate depends on who you are communicating with and the purpose of this communication. The communication method used will depend on the situation and which is most appropriate for conveying your message and communicating most effectively.

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We’ve listed some useful steps to follow to encourage meaningful, two-way communication with employees:

  • Actively listen: Engage fully with the speaker by focusing on their words, acknowledging their points, and responding thoughtfully. This means putting away distractions, maintaining eye contact, and showing genuine interest in what they are saying.
  • Ask questions: Encourage deeper conversation by asking open-ended questions that invite employees to share more details, perspectives, or ideas. This clarifies their thoughts and shows that you value their input.
  • Pay attention: Be fully present during the conversation, listening to the words being said and noting nonverbal cues like body language and tone. This will help you understand the full context of the communication and respond appropriately.
  • Control your emotions: Maintain a calm and composed demeanor, even if the conversation becomes difficult or contentious. Managing your emotions ensures that the communication remains constructive and that employees feel safe to express themselves honestly.
  • Set clear expectations: Provide employees with clear guidelines and goals for communication, whether it’s about feedback, project updates, or general discussions. This clarity helps in aligning understanding and reduces misunderstandings.
  • Be mindful of language used: Choose your words carefully, avoiding jargon or language that could be perceived as condescending or unclear. Positive, inclusive, and respectful language fosters an open and collaborative communication environment.
  • Do not pre-determine an outcome: Approach each conversation with an open mind, without assuming what the conclusion will be. This openness encourages genuine dialogue and allows for new ideas and solutions to emerge.

An internal communication strategy ensures the right information gets to the right people. Employees need to know about new policies, business updates, and process changes.

How can I de-escalate an angry employee?

When communication breaks down or conflict occurs, it is important to take steps early on to address the issue and prevent it from becoming a larger issue that is more difficult to resolve. This may involve having difficult conversations and using de-escalation techniques. When de-escalating a situation, the first thing to remember is to stay calm, maintain a composed demeanor, and listen without interrupting. Acknowledge their feelings and express empathy. Use a calm tone and ask clarifying questions to understand the issue. Avoid being defensive, and work together to find a solution, showing that you value their concerns.

Communication training for employees helps to provide the necessary tools and strategies to communicate effectively with coworkers, clients, and stakeholders. It teaches employees how to enhance their communication skills to become better communicators, good listeners, and more confident speakers. Better communication skills will help to prevent misunderstandings, increase job satisfaction, and enhance customer satisfaction.

Effective communication is a critical component of business success. If you would like support in making communication a top priority for your business or need help resolving a conflict, please get in touch.