Improve your communication skills in the workplace and community

Brian Tracy, a motivational public speaker and self-development author, says: "Communication is a skill that you can learn. It’s like riding a bicycle or typing. If you’re willing to work at it, you can rapidly improve the quality of every part of your life.

A 2023 study from the University of Law surveyed 2,000 employees in the United Kingdom, finding that 97% of individuals aged 24 to 35 were worried about being judged by their coworkers due to their communication style. This highlights the pivotal role effective communication plays in both the workplace and society, underscoring the importance of ongoing development and refinement.

Ways to enhance communication with the community

Expressing concisely and clearly

Poor communication often results from the inability to express thoughts clearly and concisely. Using simple, transparent language and expressions to convey intended meanings and avoid ambiguity is essential for improving communication quality with others.

Training in active listening

Active listening is regarded as a crucial aspect of developing communication skills. It entails attentively listening to the speaker, providing positive responses to indicate interest in their message, and asking clarifying questions to ensure accurate comprehension.

Paying attention to body language and tone of voice

Body language and tone of voice play a significant role in conveying impressions during conversations. Signs of anxiety or distraction, as well as speaking in a high or low tone, often arise from misunderstandings. Therefore, it is recommended to observe body movements and vocal intonations and prioritise visual cues to ensure successful communication.

Controlling reactions

It is recommended to regulate reactions and provide appropriate responses to what is received from others, focusing on conveying the correct image clearly and simply and offering constructive comments. Developing the skill of managing reactions during conversations leads to improvement over time, reducing potential misunderstandings, and enhancing communication quality.

Avoiding distractions

To enhance communication during group interactions, it is recommended to eliminate distractions like phones or eating that may hinder focus. This ensures better communication outcomes.

Asking for advice

Seeking feedback from friends or family on one’s communication skills may be beneficial, as it provides insights into areas one may overlook. Their opinions and reactions should be taken seriously to recognize the weak points of communication and work on enhancing them.

Ways to enhance communication in the workplace

Positive relationships play a vital role in fostering positive communication across all levels within an organisation, from coworker’s personal relationships to direct communication between employees and managers, as well as leadership communication with work teams and the organisation as a whole.

Professor Karen Wilkinson, Assistant Dean of Liberal Arts (Communication) at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), says: “Whether you need to hone your presentation skills or beef up your written communications, there are steps you can take to immediately strengthen these skills to stand out in the workplace.” In addition to the methods mentioned earlier, workplace communication can be further enhanced through the following strategies:

Holding regular meetings

Participating enthusiastically and consistently in meetings with coworkers helps break down communication barriers and fosters the exchange of opinions and experience, contributing to the enhancement of effective communication skills.

Planning ideas in advance

Pre-planning entails constant readiness to grasp information and concepts within the work environment, thoroughly understanding assigned tasks, and organising ideas for sharing with coworkers or managers. 

This approach facilitates the acquisition of additional knowledge and skills, enabling employees to actively participate, enhance communication, and strive for excellence in the workplace.

Using work-related social media platforms

Utilising digital platforms for workplace communication not only strengthens connections with colleagues but also offers insights into their conversations and personalities beyond the office. This accessibility facilitates communication at various times, fostering better understanding and more effective face-to-face interactions.

Enjoying recreational activities

Participating in enjoyable activities with colleagues is crucial for refreshing energy and breaking the monotony of daily routines. Encouraging such engagement in the workplace is essential for strengthening relationships and enhancing communication.

Organising shared lunch breaks, engaging in casual conversations in the workplace, and holding activities like puzzle-solving competitions during breaks add an element of fun and entertainment to the work environment.

References

[1] knowledgeenthusiast.com, 10 simple yet powerful ways to improve your communication skills
[2] law.ac.uk, New research reveals crisis of communication confidence among UK workers
[3] professional.dce.harvard.edu, 8 Ways You Can Improve Your Communication Skills
[4] masterclass.com, Effective Communication: 6 Ways to Improve Communication Skills
[5] post.edu, The Key to Succeeding at Work: Improving Communication in the Workplace