Effective communication is the key to a productive workplace. As a manager, it’s your responsibility to help maintain the flow of communication. In order to do this, you need to speak regularly to your team and get individual feedback. It’s also essential to update your software and equipment to ensure you have the best tools for communication. This will improve the comfort of your staff as well as boost collaboration. Here are a few more tips on how to encourage effective communication at work.
Invest in the right tools
As well as investing in software and equipment such as headsets and microphones, you also need a secure working line for communication. It’s a good idea to opt for VOIP Telephone Systems as these allow you to make multiple calls online. They’re also more secure and cheaper than ordinary phone lines. You can make contact with both your team and your clients more easily by using a VOIP telephone system
Personalised communication
It’s often mentioned in tips for managers to improve communication to consider the audience. Target your communication at work in the same way you would to customers. This means making it relevant to the right people and taking each individual’s needs into consideration. It’s important to know your audience and their preferences. Perhaps certain employees prefer to communicate in a particular way. Try to take note of this.
Hold daily catch-ups
One of the main benefits of daily catch-ups is that you can ensure all staff is up to date and ready to get on with the tasks of the day. It’s better to have regular catch-ups as you will be able to stay on top of any issues. You’ll also be giving your employees a platform if they have something that needs addressing to the entire team. You should also book in plenty of one-to-ones with individuals as well to ensure they are on board.
Get staff feedback
In order to maintain a good relationship with your staff as well as effective communication, you need to listen to them. Get staff feedback and show that you have taken it into consideration. You could even offer a platform for anonymous feedback. It’s also important to hold one-to-ones with your team members to discuss their goals and professional development. Offering them training opportunities based on these will improve employee satisfaction and retention.
Maintain a constant flow
It’s true that effective communication skills are important for managers, but you also need to maintain a constant flow of communication. Your staff needs to be aware that you’re always available to respond to any queries they may have. Get in touch on a daily basis with individuals and in group meetings to keep the flow of the conversation going. If you let it get a bit stagnant then your team will be less engaged, and less likely to maintain good communication between them. It’s your job to facilitate conversation and keep the flow going. This will help you encourage more effective communication at work.
