Communication skills training in the workplace is vital. Proper communication using the tool known as “I-statements” can reduce conflict and defensive communication and increase productivity. Articulate individuals who communicate clearly are much more highly regarded and much more likely to be promoted than those who are not articulate.
Three types of communication—assertive, aggressive, and nonassertive—allow individuals who understand and use them appropriately in a given situation to get the most from their co-workers. Another valuable piece of the communications puzzle involves understanding what motivates other people in the workplace depending on their age group and how to communicate effectively with them.
Traditionalists, Babyboomers, Gen Xers, and Gen Y or Millenials don’t approach communication the same way. For instance, Baby-boomers tend to be extremely verbal, while Millenials will often send a text rather than speaking. Of course, non-verbal communication such as body language is also very important.
Finally, both the sender and receiver need to strive for effective responses reflecting their individual feelings, the content of the communication, and by asking for clarification when it is needed.
