How to Improve Communication in the Business Workplace

Poor communication in the workplace more often than not leads to a breakdown in productivity as well as an unhappy working environment. Traditionally, clear verbal communication between individuals has always led to a more successful business as a whole. In more recent years, technological developments such as the internet have allowed for communication across a whole range of other platforms as well. Here we look at some of the key elements to effective communication, suggesting how good person to person skills and the use of technology can improve communication in your office and lead to a more enjoyable and productive workplace.

Be Assertive, not aggressive

Perhaps one of the biggest misconceptions in the business environment is that a competitive, can-do attitude requires individuals to be aggressive in their approach. Of course, this simply is not the case. In fact, aggression in the business workplace – the forceful and often derisive attitude that some people employ – is not only counter-productive but is perhaps one of the biggest causes of miscommunication. In order to communicate effectively with those in your office, even whilst under immense pressure, you must be assertive, not aggressive. To be assertive is to be firm and clear with your intentions, but equally open to the input of others. You will find that you are far better respected if you do not simply bulldoze those in your office with aggression.

Hold regular staff meetings and Team-building exercises

You need to make sure that each of your members of staff feels that they are a part of your business and that their opinion is valued. A good way to ensure this is to hold regular staff meeting where employees will have a chance to voice their opinions and air any grievances. Obviously, the longer you leave it between meetings, the longer potential issues have to develop out of control. When holding such meetings, try to arrange the chairs in a circle, so that each member of staff is facing one another. Then try to encourage input from every individual if possible. This set up and approach creates a far more open environment, in which your staff will feel more encouraged to open the lines of communication.

Find technologies that Work for Your Business

Though it may be the case that clear and considered person to person interaction is central to  effective communication within a business workplace, some technological advancement have also led to more instantaneously and efficient (and therefore potentially more productive) workplaces. It is important to move with the times where it is beneficial to your business. Many businesses now have their own intranet, a localized computer network which allows for the instant sharing of information and business resources. Likewise advanced telephone systems now allow for  immediate communication both in the office and on the move. If your business is perhaps lacking some of these technological tools, it is worth looking at one of the many advanced business technology suppliers online, one such is http://www.microcare-systems.co.uk.