Communicating Better at Work
Employees often show concern about the quality and quantity of communication at work. Some claim that management gives only lip service to open communication but does little to really communicate with them. Others say they receive vague instructions that are difficult to follow.
Ineffective communication often results in poor cooperation and coordination, lower productivity, undercurrent of tension, gossip and rumors, and increased turnover and absenteeism.
Experience shows there are many ways managers can improve internal communication. Here are some things you should do.
Understand that communication is a two-way street. It involves giving information and getting feedback from employees. It isn't finished when information is given.
Put more emphasis on face to face communication with employees. Don't rely mainly on bulletin board, memos and other written communication.
Ask yourself, each time you give an instruction, if the message is clear. Example: Don't just tell an employee to "show more interest" in his or her work. If an employee spends too much time
chatting with others, be specific about it.
Listen to employees, show respect for them when they speak. They'll feel like part of the team and will tend to be more dedicated and productive.
Don't just talk open-door policy. Practice it by walking around and talking to employees. Allow people to disagree and to come up with new ideas.
Conduct one-on-one meetings. Ask each employee to tell you how you can help him do a better job, then how he can help you do a better job.
Concentrate on building credibility with employees. Managers who lack credibility and fail to create a climate of trust and openness aren't believed -- no matter how hard they try to communicate.
Keep tabs on what you delegate. As the deadline nears, check to make sure that everything is on target. Give a due date for the assignment and explain how this assignment relates to other priorities.