Build Communication Skills to Build a Better Organization

Think back to the worst boss you’ve ever had. What was his or her communication style? Did you feel like you had no idea what was going on around you? Did you find out about things in round about ways instead of directly? Now consider the best boss you’ve had. What was his or her style like? Was the door always open? Did you feel like you knew what was happening within your organization? Good communication can make all the difference.

While it’s important for all employees to know how to openly communicate in an effective manner, it’s essential for managers. Appropriate sharing of information keeps your employees satisfied, invested and feeling part of the team. Several things combined make up good communication. Keep these four points in mind to foster your best communication:

1. Keep it clear and to the point. When delivering communications within your organization, you’ll want to do so in the most effective manner. Keep your points clear and concise. Practice and make notes if needed, so you are prepared to share the information. This is a learned skill and one that is essential in emergency situations or when delivering bad news.
2. Make it a two-way street. As a manager, you likely assume that you have to be effective in sharing appropriate details with employees. While this is true, it’s not the only important aspect of communication. To keep employee morale high, remember that communication is a two-way street. You have to be willing to listen to employees’ ideas and concerns, as well. To be a strong manager, communicate from top to bottom and listen from bottom to top, too.
3. Keep it regular. Don’t be a manager who only offers updates once in a blue moon. Plan to communicate with employees regularly. Perhaps you’ll hold weekly or monthly staff meetings, send monthly email updates or have social events that begin with a short update on your organization. How you choose to communicate isn’t as important as ensuring that you do so on a regular basis. Even when you decide upon a regular schedule, be spontaneous about sharing good news or recognizing employee achievements. Your employees are invested in your company, and keeping them informed is the key to maintaining their commitment and loyalty.
4. Target the right audience. Make sure you communicate changes and updates to the correct people. If a new policy affects your shipping, sales and customer service departments, be sure all parties are informed. Employees can feel frustrated when only one department affected has heard the news. Brief all involved and do so in a timely manner.

Good communication takes practice and is a skill that can be built. Get to know yourself through a program like the True Colors Personality Profile Indicator. You’ll identify strengths, preferences and ways in which you best communicate. To further your open approach to your organization, consider team building workshops. Contact The Marlo Company for information.