Effective Communication Skills at the Workplace

Merriam Webster defines communication as “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”

Many people are yet to embrace the best methods of communication and this can lead to misunderstandings especially in workplaces. The ability to communicate effectively with superiors, colleagues and staff is essential no matter what industry you work in.

You might be a put –your –head-down –and –get-things-done kind of employee but no matter you work style you cannot avoid communicating at the office –on a screen or in person

So let us ask ourselves what does good communication skills involve? They involve:

The ability to speak in public
To make presentations
To write letters, reports, memos and others
To chair meetings for example board, committee meetings.
To conduct negotiations, etc.

There are two main types of communication skills: Verbal and non-verbal cues of communication. Verbal communication involves all forms of writing and spoken language. Non-verbal communication involves “Oral and non-oral messages expressed by other than linguistic means.”

Everyone needs to develop skills of these non-verbal cues of communication.

Good communication skills also entail having emotional intelligence.

What do we mean by having emotional intelligence?

This is;

a.”…the ability to understand your emotions and those of other people and to behave appropriately in different situations” (Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary)

b. “…the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically (Oxford Dictionary).

Effective Communication Skills at the Workplace

Four Secrets to strong communication skills in the workplace

Effective Communication Skills at the Workplace

1. Empathy

Empathy is the art of understanding another person by putting yourself in their position hence being less judgement. Thus translates to effective communication by helping us understand other when they communicate to us.

2. Confidence

In the workplace, people are more likely to respond to ideas that are presented with confidence. There are many ways to appear confident, including by making eye contact when addressing someone, sitting up-straight with your shoulders open and preparing ahead of time so your thoughts are polished and you are able to answer ahead

3. Respect

People will become more open to communicating with you if you convey respect for them and their ideas. Simple actions like using a person names, making eye contact and actively listening y when a person speaks will make a person feel appreciated. On the phone avoid distraction and stay focused on the conversation.

4. Feedback

Be able to appropriately give and receive feedback is an important communication skill. Many do not know the effectiveness of giving proper feedback since they are not aware of giving it the right way. Exercising it and giving it effectively is a needed skill

Effective Communication Skills at the Workplace