Improving Your Workplace Communication

THE BOTTOM LINE: Following common-sense guidelines for better communication in the workplace can improve your work relationships immeasurably.

CONTACT

There's a good reason companies send people throughout the country meeting potential clients, even though salespeople could just as easily communicate with them by e-mail, telephone and teleconferencing - you relate better to a person when you meet him or her face to face. You can read the other person's body language and feel the energy that the connection creates.

COMMONALITY

"People feel loyal to you only when you are willing to let them get to know you," says Dianna Booher, author of Communicate with Confidence .

Get to know the people you work with by looking for personal experiences or interests you share.

For example: Ask them about their families, what enjoy doing in their spare time, what's the best vacationthey ever had and whether they have any pets.

COURTESY

Being courteous lets people know you care. You can instantly improve your relationships with co-workers by thanking them for their help - because the number one thing employees want is to be appreciated.

And when you need something done, it's better to ask for cooperation than command it.

Ask "Would you please answer the phone?" instead of saying "Answer the phone."

CONSISTENCY

Consistency builds trust and is created when you match your words with your tone of voice and your body language.

For example, when you say, "That's a great idea" with a smile and excitement in your voice, you appear as if you really mean it because you are consistent in your message.

But if you say the same phrase with sarcasm and a frown, your message is mixed and may come across as critical and ridiculing. It would be better to honestly say, "I see some problems in using your idea."

CLARITY

Don't assume people understand everything you say. It is your responsibility to make sure. Ask someone, "Did I explain this clearly? Do you have any questions?"

COMPROMISE

While nobody likes the tension of conflict, but conflict opens the door to exploring other options and new ideas.

Not everyone may agree on a solution, but people won't take the conflict personally if you focus on what's best for the company.. This allows everyone to compromise without creating ill will.

CONFIDENCE

People will believe in you to the extent that you believe in yourself. When you believe in what you say, when it comes from your heart, your inner confidence will shine, and you'll have the courage to deal with difficult situations as they arise.

Other Resources

110 Ideas for Dealing With Angry People - Tips Booklet - For Details Click Here

Employee Success Toolkit

Discover the 13 tools every employee must have in their toolkit to stay positive and be successful. Click Here