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Workplace Communication

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Workplace Communication

Getting communication right is always paramount as everyone knows, good staff communication boosts business success. As who knows what the company aims are without them being made clear? Therefore, with any hot topics you may be communicating to staff, refreshing on your communication channels and methods may be ideal. So, here are our tips on how to put across your messages well.
Communicate
Your method of communication is always vital to consider when preparing any information. By getting the method part of the process correct can assist you reaching successful delivery of information. The method of communication can be as critical as the message itself, thus vital to get it right. So, when deciphering your communication style, try to think through what the message is and how you would want to receive this information, in addition to gaining other people’s opinions of this too. For example, if you are wanting to address to staff what your rules are for the Christmas party this may be best done in a written format, to ensure there is no ambiguity.
Culture
When delivering a message try to ensure that the tone suits the points which are wanting to address, in addition to the style of the business. For instance, if you don’t have a corporate work place culture by sending out a message which reflects style will allow recipients to become confused and uncomfortable. Thus, try be clear and to the point as this will ensure you matter is addressed. However ensure your tone suits the organisation, and the message, to provide staff with the ability to understand your message. As one of the biggest downsides when communicating is having a receiver who doesn’t comprehend the meaning of your message.
Time
When sending out a message the communication timing should be suitable to the issues involved, to avoid information being misinterpreted. This is because if you send a message out at the wrong time the message can instantly become a bad message – usually regardless of what it’s saying. In this sense, try to be tactical regarding the delivery of the message. Obviously there is no right time for everyone so try to understand employees reactions concerning the time which they may receive a message before hitting the ‘send’ button. For instance, not many employees want to hear bad news the last thing on a Friday and so sending it on a Monday may be better placed.
Is it heard?
Make sure the message you deliver is precise because sometimes not all details are noted by receivers, especially if the information been received is lengthy. Hence, short sharp and to the point can often be the most effective and efficient way to ensure employees understand the issue. Also when delivering a message try grasps your audience’s attention, as this will allow their focus to be on the addressed matter. In addition, if you feel that you recipients haven’t listened or understood, engage them with your delivery. For example, go over a point you have touched on and relate this to employee’s practices to make them feel connected with your information.
Feedback
Also, after sending out information, try and follow up with employees what has been said. Whilst you may say ‘get in touch if you want to discuss this further’ most employees won’t. Therefore it may be beneficial to send out a reminder memo a few days later, just to remind staff that you are interested in their opinions.
Effective communication works both ways, so if you only deliver a message this doesn’t necessarily mean it has been done well. In light of this implementing feedback systems can allow you to understand employee’s perceptions of the matter. For instance, opening up a suggestion box to promote staff to have a voice regarding the matter. In addition, by encouraging staff to put forward their feedback this can enhance your engagement levels.
Workplace communication can almost always be advanced/amended as the methods, people involved, personalities, etc. are always changing. Therefore by reviewing your communication styles and success now should in turn, allow you to build on your engagement with staff and improve communication all round.