Poor communication can cause all sorts of problems in your company. Some of these include gossip, office politics, stress, demotivation, turnover, and more. Even small miscommunications can lead to big problems if they aren’t resolved quickly. To avoid these problems, you need to make sure your company-wide communication is effective. Here are some of the most common communication pitfalls and how to avoid them:
Not Having an Objective
Every communication starts with an objective, which is the reason for the communication. For example, you may send emails to clarify a point on a project or greet your co-workers to foster better working relationships. When it comes to big communications, like an important meeting, having a clear objective, a goal you wish to accomplish with the communication, is key. If you’re unable to find or state an objective, it’s likely that you get off topic and neglect to address what needs to be covered. This can create confusion and miscommunication in your company. To avoid this, consider using an agenda or clearly communicating an objective before meeting and send it out to anyone involved before the meeting starts. It can bas simple as saying, “The goal of this meeting is to…” This will help keep everyone on task and better ensure you will cover needed topics.
Overcomplicating
While technical terms are perfectly fine to use with some of your direct peers, it can be difficult for others in different specialties to understand. If you want all your employees to understand what you’re talking about, you need to use simple language. Avoid jargon, acronyms, or overly complicated words. If you have to use a technical term, define it so everyone is on the same page.
Not Confirming
If a piece of information is important to you, you may assume that everyone else holds that information at the same significance. That’s not always correct. The best way to ensure that people remember important things is to repeat them. This can apply to deadlines, meeting dates, project instructions, and more. Follow up and make sure you’re emphasizing critical points, so your employees understand their importance.
Having good communication can help your company make progress toward goals and prevent problems from occurring. Follow this advice today for better communication in your workplace.