Free Essay

How to Improve Communication in the Workplace?

In:

Submitted By lovelyb
Words 1867
Pages 8
Abstract

The workplace is a diverse group of people. Therefore, communication is one of the most important aspects used in the workplace. Communication occurs each and every day. Employees and supervisors have to communicate with each other in making decisions, asking for help, or trying to figure out to solve problems at work. Failing to communicate effectively can make the job different and bring all kinds o problems. With that being said, there are many ways to improve communication such as active listening, learn to be open and understanding of other’s points of view, maintain a positive attitude, and have face-to-face interaction.

“The act or process of using words, sounds, signs, or behaviors to express or exchange information or to express your ideas, thoughts, feelings, etc., to someone else (Merriam Webster Dictionary, 2014).” In other words, communication is interacting between two or more individuals by interchanging information. Communication is one of the most important aspects used in the workplace. Also, it is a tool used to increase productivity and maintains strong interpersonal relationships at work. Effective communication is when both parties understand the information that the sender intended to transmit. In other words, hearing and understanding what the person says and being able to get your own point across is what effective communication is about (Moulesong, 2010). In a workplace environment, there are people with different backgrounds, personalities, opinions, and ideas used to network with each other on a daily basis; therefore, communicating effectively is a critical part of a business’s success (Moulesong, 2010). Everyone at work has his or her own communication style (Moulesong, 2010). At work, everyone communicates, whether communicating with others by: writing, sending or receiving emails; showing up to meetings; answering inquiries; and writing business letters are a few of the ways people at work communicate. Being able to communicate with each other is a way to complete jobs. Managers and supervisors use communication to communicate with employees and run a business properly. Everyone at work communicates with customers and consumers to make sure their customers and consumers are satisfied and their needs are met. I believe that poor communication in the workplace will eventually lead to employees not feeling motivated to come to work and they may question their own confidence of their abilities to finish their job. With that being said, there are many ways to improve communication in the workplace, so employees can fulfill their duties in a timely manner. Employees should be open and clear when communicating. Be open and honest about the issue you are having with another employee. Also, take the time to listen to the other person. I believe it’s important to understand and respect each other viewpoints. Understanding their point-of-view may help you understand why they have an issue with you. In my opinion, listening to someone’s points of view is probably the hardest for most people, because that means a person has to be open-minded. Therefore; it doesn’t hurt to take the time to listen to someone and actually hear what he or she are saying. You also have to consider that the person may be going through something in their personal life to and this is why they are acting the way they are. Another way to improve communication in the workplace is to have face-to-face interaction. Face to face interaction is better for workplace communication and to resolve any situations, because it’s easier to see a person’s reaction and expressions. Also, to understand what they mean rather than reading what they say over e-mail. Face to face interaction can help increase the level of communication and productivity when people come together and make compromises. Each day employees have the ability to communicate effectively (Stewart, 2013). If people communicate effectively, there can be fewer problems and concerns. Open communication prevents and resolves issues, concerns and problems at work (Dogra, 2012). For example, if two employees had a disagreement and did not resolve their issue, they end up taking it personally. If it continues for a long time, this can cause problems at work and they may not want to work together in the future. If supervisors have to step in and mediate to resolve the issue then this will look unprofessional for both employees. Employees should try and understand the other person’s point of view, so later on any disagreements can stop before it gets worse. So, it’s best to resolve conflicts at the beginning; therefore, employees develop respect for one another and this can lead to professional and personal growth (Dogra, 2012). There are many positive aspects of why it’s important to communicate appropriately at work. If there is a misunderstanding, an employee should clear up this misunderstanding, rather than gossip with other people at work. Avoiding any arguments or alterations at work is the best thing to do. When employees speak about his or her disappointment or dislikes about the job, this is when managers should approach co-workers and ask them to come and talk with them about their individual feelings about the job, their disappointments, their dislikes, giving ideas of how to improve and make the workplace atmosphere healthier, and how to go about enhancing their self-worth. Regarding communication, there are many problems that can be solved before they have a chance to arise. For example, if an employee does not fully understand his or her assignment, by asking for clarification from his or her supervisor (Montgomery, 2008). By asking for clarification about the assignment this could prevented a disaster from happening (Montgomery, 2008). If the employee went ahead and did the assignment the way he or she thought, then this could have led to dismal from the job, leaving them unemployed (Montgomery, 2008). Therefore, it is important that even a little communication can make a big difference in a job. It may potentially save someone’s future work reputation. To avoid any negative outcomes, one should discuss any issues or concerns with their supervisor in the workplace. By having a discussion with their supervisor about anything, all assignments should have a better chance of being completed accurately. In my opinion, if there were issues with assignments, I would assume a supervisor would try to compromise and work with the employee so the job could run smooth. However, it’s the employee’s responsibility to speak when issues arises, because that is the only way the issues will get resolved. Miscommunication can hurt the whole business productivity and clientele as well as the employee. There will be times that people may say something to you and will make you angry. This is the time to take the time and think about your response. Do not respond quickly, because it may be in a negative manner. By taking deep breaths and choosing your words carefully can help the situation not explode into an argument. This can be challenging for some, but in the end, you have to be professional and positive at work. Having a positive attitude can guide you through any situation so you can see the bigger picture and avoid negativity (Noe, 2010). Maintaining a positive attitude can help improve communication in the workplace. It is not always easy to maintain a positive attitude at work especially when other coworkers are being negative (Noe, 2010). Everyone has their good and bad days, but maintaining a positive attitude can help with those difficult situations at work. People want to be around others who make them feel good. Employees with the positive attitudes tend to be more productive and see the opportunity and the positive side of the challenges at work. I believe that people who have positive attitudes worry less and spend their energy on positive activities. There are several benefits of having a positive attitude. For example, thanking coworkers and supervisors for the work they do and how they help you when you are having problems or concerns. Working in a positive environment will increase productivity and employees will be happy with their jobs (Noe, 2010). The important aspect of maintaining a positive attitude at work is to make a difference and wanting to do well and be successful for the business. All in all, encouraging positive attitudes in the workplace may change the way coworkers treat you. Paying attention to nonverbal communication is one way to help improve communication in the workplace. There are employees who may express what they feel verbally, but his or her facial expressions say their true feeling (Donovan, 2013). By noticing employees or coworkers nonverbal cues in conversations and meetings and ask for their input so they will not feel they are being judged. Also, pay attention to how others react to your body language, so they feel more comfortable and understand what you’re saying. I think if someone wants to be successful working with others, they have to learn to communicate with and without words. Most importantly, listen more than you are talking. Active listening involves listening and focusing on the message carefully. You can’t listen while you’re trying to think about how you’re going to respond (Stewart, 2013). Being able to communicate effectively through active listening helps with improving your daily life, it helps in understanding more about people, being able to express your thoughts more efficiently.
In conclusion, communication is the key for a business to function properly. Communication is important that everyone understands how to communicate with each other. If there is miscommunication in the work environment, this could possible jeopardize the business. If there are issues or concerns, it is best to communicate with your supervisor. From there, the supervisor could clarify and help make sure the job will get done. Communication is a very powerful act, when used properly and appropriately. Remember, that you should always think before speaking. When discussing problems, concerns, opinions, thoughts, plans, and ideas these all should be handled in a skillful and professional manner.

References
Dogra, A. (2012). Importance of Communication in the Workplace. Retrieved from http://www.buzzle.com/articles/importance-of-communication-in-the-workplace.html
Donovan, D. (2013). 5 Ways to Improve Workplace Communication. Retrieved from http://business.dnb.com/small-business-information/5-ways-to-improve-workplace- communication/
Merriam Webster Dictionary. (2014). Communication. Retrieved from http://www.merriam- webster.com/dictionary/communication
Montgomery, A. (2008). The Importance of Communication in The Workplace. Retrieved from http://voices.yahoo.com/the-importance-communication-workplace-2026988.html
Moulesong, B. (2010). Effective communication in the workplace is key to company success. Retrieved from http://www.nwitimes.com/business/jobs-and-employment/effective- communication-in-the-workplace-is-key-to-company-success/article_819dd545-eba9- 551e-87d0-93504efdc7bc.html
Noe, D.P. (2010). Tips on why it is Important to keep a Positive Attitude at Work. Retrieved from http://www.careerpath360.com/index.php/tips-on-why-it-is-important-to-keep-a- positive-attitude-at-work-7342/
Stewart, P. (2013). 7 Tips For Improving Your Communications Skills at Work. Retrieved from http://packetpushers.net/7-tips-for-improving-your-communications-skills-at-work/
Stewart, P. (2013). The Importance of Effective Communication At Work. Retrieved from http://packetpushers.net/the-importance-of-effective-communication-at-work/

Similar Documents

Premium Essay

Eng215

...Introduction Communication is the exchange and flow of information and ideas from one individual to another via the usage of the mouth. This can be through the telephone, fax mail, email, or the aspect of using the face-face entity at the workplace. Basically, this document will illustrate in detail on how to undertake the approach of involving better and improved communication ways that lead to better and positive outcome of the firm. In essence, this shows that the paper is intended to bring about a positive outcome that would be influenced by the presence of improved communication links within a workplace environment (Perkins, 2010). Problem statement Basically, this paper tends to base its attribute on how to improve interaction in the workplace, and hence bring about a positive outcome in the workplace. Therefore, it is essential for firms to undertake the aspect of looking for better ways that can be put into practice improved communication approaches in order to enable the workplace atmosphere contribute to positive outcome. This will be an approach that will assist both clients and the employees working in the firm at stake in the market (Lasater, 2010). Statement of objective The paper is entailed to show that the presence of improved communication links at the workplace is essential as they are designed to generate positive implications. Basically, it also goes to the extent of illustrating that coordination of the individuals involved in the improvement of...

Words: 2373 - Pages: 10

Premium Essay

Fundamentals of Effective Communication in the Workplace

...Fundamentals of Effective Communication in the Workplace Strayer University Intro to Business BUS 100 Professor Alethia Gardener May 09, 2015 Fundamentals of Effective Communication in the Workplace Communication is the sharing of information between two or more individuals or groups to reach a common goal or understanding. Communication in the workplace is essential for effective functioning of each unit and the company’s overall organizational success. Communication is needed to increase efficiency, satisfy customers, improve quality, and create innovative products ("Effective Communication," n.d.). By the end of this paper, you will review an example of effective communication being provided in a business environment, review the reasons why the communication was deemed to be effective, and how the results impacted the business. Effective Communication in a Business Environment Thinking back on past jobs, one time when I have experienced effective communication in a business environment would be when I worked in a call center for a major television provider. I was responsible for taking inbound calls from customers with interests of changing programing, upgrading equipment, and or/ bundling their television services with phone and internet service. Being such a fast paced organization and leading in technology, nothing was consistent but change. All television providers sign contracts with networks and broadcast stations in order to broadcast certain channels. Normally...

Words: 770 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Abortions

...Why Communication is needed in the Workplace? Abstract Communication plays a crucial part in the realization of any workplace program or policy and aids as the foundation for healthy workplace practices. In all jobs there are going to be various challenges that people face each and every day. One of the most important is how communication is done in the work place. When there is information that you consider to be important it needs to be conveyed clearly and directly. When you are communicating in the work place, it will be most effective if it is clear, consistent and personal. When possible it should be shared in person so that physical cues like eye contact and body language can communicate your thoughts. Why Communication is needed in the Workplace? Workplace communication is the transmitting of information between one person or group and another person or group in an organization. It can include emails, text messages, voicemails, notes, etc. (Lombardo, 2003). Of all the problems that tend to manifest through the day, many are caused or at least could be prevented by using better communication practices in the workplace. With the upswing of know-how there is no way that all people can communicate effectively the same with everybody and there are a few things that all people can do in order to adjust communication in the work place (Osborne, 2003). For certain employees this can mean that an email is satisfactory and for others a direct communication will...

Words: 1803 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Mgmt 591 Paper

... Texas. Curved Skies provides solutions in the Aerospace and Defense sectors. As we grow and expand our business, there is sometimes a lack of information flow to employees. This lack of information flow can sometimes lead to confusion and lack of guidance as to what our goal is for certain projects. Problem Statement What are ways to improve communications within an organization? Organizations that expand in size and number of employees need to find ways to ensure that pertinent information is distributed in a timely manner to all employees that are affected. Lack of information flow and communications can lead to possible issues with employees and management. These issues could also lead to projects not being accomplished and dissatisfaction from the customers. Communications are important to many facets of a business, whether it is passing information along to employees, or ensuring that information is passed to the customer. Information or communications can happen in several ways (i.e. email, social media, and advertising.) I am going to research the ways to improve communications in all manners. Improving communications...

Words: 2725 - Pages: 11

Premium Essay

Training Proposal

...[pic] Training Proposal Fundamental Communication Skills Training for Managers Prepared For: Institute for Children, Poverty, and Homelessness 44 Cooper Square New York, NY 10003 Provided By: Personnel Fusion Consultants Table of Contents ICPH Background: The Institute for Children, Poverty and Homelessness is an independent nonprofit organization that was founded in New York City in 1990. The organization was formed after the late 1980’s when family homelessness rates was increasing in the United States. (ICPH) is a research and development organization that studies the motives of family homelessness and as well, develops data to inform and help enhance public policy for family homelessness. During their past 25 years of service, the Institute of Children, Poverty and Homelessness has been committed to advance statistics as they believe this data is what interests the public and political provision to help with homeless families. Their mission is to study the impact of poverty on family and child well-being and to generate research that will enhance public policies and programs affecting poor and homeless children and their families. ICPH examines the condition of extreme poverty in the United States and its effect on educational attainment, housing, employment...

Words: 3670 - Pages: 15

Premium Essay

Uncle Tom Influence

...University of Phoenix Material Communication Basics Worksheet Respond to the following in your own words: 1. Define communication. |Communication is the passing of information from one person to another together with | |its meaning. It is a means of connecting two people together with the intent of | |reaching a mutual understanding. | | | 2. What are the major principles of communication, as outlined in Ch. 1 of Human Comunication? |The major principles of communication are: know your goal, know the subject matter, | |know your audience, expect critics, present the whole picture, win audience | |confidence, be consistent, follow audience pace, be lively, welcome feedback and use | |varieties of ways to get throough message. | 3. Why are these principles important to effectively communicating in the workplace? |They are important because it improves organizations productivity and ensure that ...

Words: 354 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Leadership and Management

...ILM Level 3 Award in Leadership and Management: |Centre Number: |R31609 | |Centre Name: |Leeds Metropolitan Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) Centre | |Student Name: |Alexandra Hunt | |Leeds Met Student ID: |33251825 | |Student Date of Birth: |15/01/1991 | |Student Email Address: |a.hunt2229@student.leedsmet.ac.uk | |Gender: |Female | |Assessment Summary | | | |This task requires...

Words: 2759 - Pages: 12

Premium Essay

Verbal and Nonverbal Memo

...Supervisor Date: 9-28-15 Subject: Verbal and Nonverbal communication Nonverbal communication also evolved earlier than verbal communication and served an early and important survival function that helped humans later develop verbal communication. While some of our nonverbal communication abilities, like our sense of smell, lost strength as our verbal capacities increased, other abilities like paralanguage and movement have grown alongside verbal complexity. The fact that nonverbal communication is processed by an older part of our brain makes it more instinctual and involuntary than verbal communication. Nonverbal communication can substitute for verbal communication in a variety of ways. Nonverbal communication can convey much meaning when verbal communication isn’t effective because of language barriers. Language barriers are present when a person hasn’t yet learned to speak or loses the ability to speak. Nonverbal communication helps us regulate our conversations so we don’t end up constantly interrupting each other or waiting in awkward silences between speaker turns. Pitch, which is a part of vocalic, helps us cue others into our conversational intentions. A rising pitch typically indicates a question and a falling pitch indicates the end of a thought or the end of a conversational turn. In verbal communication, or oral communication, one person sends a message to another person or group using speech. Communication is successful only when the speaker and listener understand...

Words: 685 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Communication Methods in Workplace

...GROUP #5 COMMUNICATION PROJECT – PARADISE RESORT AND SPA WHAT IS COMMUNICATION? Communication is the transmission of information and ideas from one individual or group to another. The crucial element of this definition is meaning. “Communication is the glue that enables people to work together to accomplish results.” "The most important thing in communication is to hear what isn't being said." Peter Drucker Communication in organizations or organization communication encompasses all the means, both formal and informal, by which information is passed up, down, and across the network of managers and employees in a business. These various modes of communication may be used to disseminate official information between employees and management, facilitates team work, to exchange hearsay and rumors, or anything in between. Organizational Communication serve to improve customer relations, bolster employee satisfaction, build knowledge-sharing throughout the organization, and most importantly, enhance the firm's competitiveness. According to Fielding, an organization consist of groups of people who work together to reach specific goals. The individuals must communicate with each other and share information if they are to reach the shared goals. How the organization is managed, for example autocratically or democratically affects the communication within the organization and the direction in which communication will travel. Generally the four channels of direction...

Words: 2836 - Pages: 12

Premium Essay

Benefits of Technology in the Workplace

...Benefits of Technology in the Workplace Tederick Rhoades National American University EN1300 Composition II Kim Alarie 8/24/14 Abstract Many technologies are currently being implemented at the workplace with a bid to reduce costs of production, improve employee motivation and also monitor how employees utilize company resources. This paper will address the benefits of technology at the workplace with regards to how it has transformed not only the productivity at the workplace, but also the nature of doing business in this era of globalization. The paper also identifies some challenges that come about with the introduction of technology and recommendations of aspects that can improve proper utilization of the gains provided by technology. As globalization defines market standards, technology has been introduced in the workplace in order to create the relevant competitive edges to succeed in this dynamic market. The current workplace is a buzz with technology that has transformed and redefined the work environment. With the introduction of new technology at the workplace, the contributions and productions of organizations have increased productivity and profitability in equal measures. This is through empowering employees through motivation and a departure from traditional forms of work by giving them control or rather autonomy over how, where and when they can accomplish...

Words: 3093 - Pages: 13

Premium Essay

Motivation, Stress and Communication

...Motivation, Stress, and Communication Chantey Strayer University BUS520 June 12, 2012 DR. Edward Olanrewaju Abstract In the paper discussed will be a description of a chosen position with a desired company. Described will be ways that goal setting could be used to motivate performance after filling a position. In the paper analyzed will be the reactions to situations and discussed will be the steps that can be taken to manage the stress associated with the new position. Presented will be how to address nonverbal and cultural barriers to communication. The company researched will be Lincoln Financial Group which is a diversified financial services organization with a strong focus on four core business areas- life insurance, annuities, defined contribution, and group protection; and three distribution platforms- wholesales, retail, and worksite. Create a brief job description for a position within the company you research that you would like to fill. The brief job descripition I have put together is as follows: HR generalist will partner with the Group Protection business function and develop and execution of HR strategies to support business goals and objective. Some of the HR focus and initiatives for this role will include HR organizational development, policies / processes, talent Primary Responsibilities include (Lincoln Financial Group , n.d.): * Provide HR support and guidance to Group Protection clients. * Implement organizational development process...

Words: 1421 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Teamwork in the Workplace

...to perform at the highest level possible to reach the goals that were set to achieve. By setting clear roles and responsibilities for the team, having a team dynamic that works and is organized, as well as open communication, teamwork in the workplace can be an effective means of reaching desired goals. In order for a team to work best together they must forgo the four stages of team development. These four stages are Forming, Storming, Norming, and Performing. Some of the best teams in the workplace are the more diverse. Diversity in teams is also an important concept in challenging collaboration for more diverse “out-of-the-box” thinking. Although these teams may be hard to come together in the beginning, these are the teams that usually end up thriving in the end. In some cases, teamwork can be infective in the workplace. Depending on the team dynamic, not all teams are going to get along. Change also happens which in some cases pushes teams apart. Having a strong leader is most important in making sure you team will function properly. Also, rewarding members of the team for successes is a good way to keep morale up and keep team members positive. Keywords: communication, motivation, leadership, change management, diversity, team development  Teamwork in the Workplace Teamwork, as defined by Merriam-Webster, is “work done by several associates with each doing a part but all subordinating personal prominence to the efficiency of the whole.” Each person being a part of a team...

Words: 2583 - Pages: 11

Premium Essay

Communications Techinques

...Techniques that Improve Communications Diversity training is important in today’s workplace. The ability to effectively communicate with employees with different cultural backgrounds is essential to having a successful business. Business organizations integrate diversity training to ensure maximum productivity. In order for diversity training to be effective, different techniques are used. Companies understand the importance of effective communication. Without such communication, it can be a drain on the company and its resources. Researchers have developed several different techniques to assist with achieving the goal of effective communication. The following techniques are recommended: Seek Training: This technique is important especially if an organization is experiencing diversity issues. Diversity issues can be viewed as an opportunity, not a threat (Fine, p 485). Organizations should develop a training program to aid with their efforts. A lot can be learned during diversity training. Researchers suggest training should focus on team building effectiveness. This allows the team the opportunity to bond. The second phase of training should focus on conflict resolution. This will allow management and employees different options when a dispute arises. Learn about your cultural self: This technique is often overlooked in the workplace. One must understand that your culture is not the only culture. Your culture happens to be one of many cultures within the workplace. Co-workers...

Words: 710 - Pages: 3

Free Essay

The Importance of Active Listening

...The Importance of Active Listening Communication is an essential of our everyday life; something we do as naturally as taking our next breath. Many of us see listening in much the same way. Communicating goes much deeper than just instinctive reaction. It takes work. Communication requires active listening and an understanding of interpersonal relationships to have satisfying workplace relations. “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” ~~Steven R. Covey Communication is more than speaking and hearing. Hearing requires no effort, but listening does. To actively listen you have to pay attention so you can process and analyze the message to respond appropriately. Yes, active listening is work, sometimes hard work but the one thing that is more important in the office than your education, qualifications, or experience, is your ability to be an active listener. Active listening improves understanding through being attentive to the speaker; allowing you to reflect on the message instead of planning your next response. Attentive listening minimizes defensiveness and allows for constructive conversation and problem-solving. Active listening requires listening, reflecting, and acknowledging. Feedback from acknowledgment reduces misunderstanding and allows decision making in the workplace without errors. Active listening is an important part of building relationships in the workplace. Every environment whether it be...

Words: 728 - Pages: 3

Free Essay

Cororateresponsiiblity

...Team A discussed the importance of motivation and communication among employers and their staff. Motivation and communication are great indicators of what type of personality an employee has and how they carry themselves in the work place.  Personality traits are one of the factors that may help managers determine the best worker for a position. When managers understand the characteristics of their employees they are more likely to find suitable opportunities that best suits an employee. Not every employee possesses strong leadership traits, and leadership is not something that everyone can become confident in after training. Managers must understand their employees and determine the best way to motivate each of them. Motivation in the workplace is the process managers use to get their employees to deliver high producing results. Managers must have a strong understanding of how to create long lasting performance and high morale.  Effective communication in the workplace plays a prominent role in developing long lasting employee motivation. Effective communication will improve the overall workplace culture. Solid organizational communication eliminates barriers and helps resolve problems, while building stronger workplace relationships for increased productivity Communication improves relationships. Improving the relationships between management and employees is important in many ways. Things will go smoothly when everyone is on the same page, understanding of goals and...

Words: 312 - Pages: 2