In the business world, we hear time and time again that good communication is an essential component of a successful organization. Communicating clearly and efficiently can lead to a stronger team, happier customers and better overall productivity. How can you improve your daily interactions with co-workers and employees? Take a crash course in communication skills training with these five simple steps.
- 1. Consider your medium.
Think about the type of information you plan to disseminate and the potential reactions from your audience before deciding whether to relay it in person, in print or in an email. Is the subject of a sensitive nature or one that your employees may have pressing questions about? Perhaps speaking to them in person is the best approach. Is the message complex and detailed? Maybe a letter or email outlining each specific point is the most appropriate medium.
- 2. Be direct (but not dictatorial).
A long, rambling speech or email can easily lose a listener or reader’s attention. Choose your words carefully and edit your message to be clear and honest, without room for misinterpretation. When assigning tasks or giving orders, do so respectfully. If you are discussing a delicate issue that might not have a positive response, find ways to bring up the subject gently without misleading your audience.
- 3. Stay focused.
When addressing an audience, remain focused on your objectives from start to finish. What are you trying to achieve? What do you want people to take away from your message? What actions do you hope to inspire?
- 4. Pay attention to feedback.
If you are speaking face-to-face with people, you will receive feedback from them through verbal and non-verbal clues. Pay attention to what they say, as well as what their facial expressions and body language tell you. Give them time to process your words and opportunities to respond. If you are relaying the message in writing, make sure your readers know how they can contact you with feedback.
- 5. Stay composed.
In heated discussions, resist the urge to respond with angry, sarcastic or passive-aggressive remarks that will only exacerbate the situation. Take a moment to gather your thoughts and consider your words and their consequences, then react. Be aware of your own blind spots when dealing with a conflict, and try to manage your stress.
Take the next step in communication skills training with Communicating to Manage Performance” href=”http://www.employeedevelopmentsystems.com/p-157-communicating-to-manage-performance.aspx” target=”_self”>Communicating to Manage Performance , an interactive, skills-based course designed to empower tacmeds.com supervisors, managers and team leaders.
