Why workplace communication is crucial
Fact: all businesses strive to operate at the most efficient and effective level possible. This is an undisputed certainty. And, effective communication in the workplace is paramount to succeeding at achieving this. In fact, as companies expand their business and grow their workforce they comfortably spend millions on tools to improve communication.
Integration software, business process automation and bespoke dashboards are just some of the tools that assist with communication throughout the workplace
However, these systems, which are somewhat intuitive, are likely to always rely on human interaction. A person needs to input the information into the system which it then quickly communicates to the designated audience. Ultimately, effective workplace communication will always be the responsibility of the workforce and no software solution can replace human-to-human communication.
Maintaining open channels of communication between your staff members has many different benefits
Interpersonal relationships are developed and through this the entire team’s morale will be boosted. When you staff feel supported and happy in the work environment, or if they’ve even made a few friends at work, they’ll be happy to be there. And, happy staff often equates to productive staff. There’s a direct link between worker productivity and communication and while communication amongst colleagues is important, open channels of communication between staff members and their line managers or superiors is vital. By being able to communicate upward and being certain the message will be heard and feedback offered, employees will feel a sense of security and job satisfaction. Similarly, what could be termed as “downward” communication is also valued among staff members, as receiving pertinent information that directly impacts their work life is important and the staff will appreciate it.
Consistent and clear workplace communication is also important for senior management and those at an executive level
Just as reporting on figures and performance is important so is reporting on team interaction, the culture of the company and staff turnover rates. If this type of consistent and effective communication is in place then when companies go through tough times such as retrenchment and the likes, the employees are more likely to remain loyal regardless of the issues.
Ensuring that effective communication in massive corporations is in place is often the responsibility of the Human Resources (HR) Department but in smaller companies who don’t have an in-house HR department, senior executives and management could look to attending HR management courses. In this way they are taught about managing the interpersonal relationships and dynamics of the employees. They can handle any conflicts that may arise and themselves will learn to effectively communicate to their colleagues and juniors.