5 Tips to Communicate More Effectively at Work

by Jessica Gutierrez

The ability to effectively communicate is one of the most pivotal skills to posses in the workplace. Clear communication gains respect from peers, circumvents miscommunication and aids in the efficient completion of tasks. 

If you have been in the workforce long enough, you've felt the feeling of being misunderstood, or worse, felt like no one is listening to you.  Unless you have the amazing talent of communicating with 100% clarity at all times, here are five helpful tips to keep your colleague’s ears perked during conversation:

Tip #1: Listen

Listen before thinking about what you will say.  Conversation is never a one-way street. When being spoken to, there is a tendency to think about a response before the speaker finishes his or her dialogue. This isn’t authentic listening.  Being a good listener means you let them get their thought across and express yours when it’s your turn. 

Tip #2: Be Polite

In a group setting, no one likes a person who is always on the phone, reading on the computer or chronic interrupters. Unless it’s urgent, put your smartphone down, stop typing and pay attention to the person speaking to you. Let them know you’re engaged by looking them in eye, nodding your head to non-verbally let them know you’re following and don’t interrupt.  When you’re actively distracted or constantly interrupting, it conveys you don’t care about what they have to say. Also, constant rebuttals give the impression you’re more interested in proving you’re right.

Tip #3: Prepare yourself for bad communicators

Everyone has their strengths, however for some, it's not in communication. When giving or listening to directions, repeat your understanding of the project or ask for their interpretation. This verifies comprehension and confirms your method of communication is effective.

Tip #4: Allow for Feedback

Ask your team what they think about your ideas and tell them what you think about theirs. Allowing for feedback gives your colleagues the freedom of expression and affords them confidence their opinion matters.

Tip #5: Trust

Trust is an integral ingredient for a good relationship; it’s no different in the workplace. If you’re in a managerial role, don’t hover over your team. This may build resentment and cause feelings of insecurity and incompetence. Unless productivity is an on-going problem, give your staff direction and let them execute. Instead of hovering, keep up with their progress by conducting weekly meetings.