In most workplaces, it’s probably fair to say that the success of a project depends partially on the communication that takes place among a work team. A lack of discussion about timelines, details or requirements can lead to lengthy and costly delays in getting work done.
Even though communication has high value in a small business environment, actively working to facilitate it is often undervalued. As author Brian Tracy once wrote, however, “Communication is a skill that you can learn. It’s like riding a bicycle or typing. If you’re willing to work at it, you can rapidly improve the quality of every part of your life.”
What benefits can you experience by fostering better communication in the workplace? Your company will have:
- More transparency among employees, as well as greater commitment to the overall team. When closed-door policies are instilled, many employees feel less valued, which can lead to the well-known issue of spending too much time on non-work related websites.
- A more positive work environment. Many work frustrations are borne out of a lack of communication or assumptions that take place between different departments.
- Better results — work will get completed on time more frequently, and thus among other factors can lead to increase revenue for your company.
Three Ways to Foster Better Communication
- Assign tasks clearly and directly. When people know what’s expected of them, they’re more likely to get a task completed. Good managers make goals and expectations simple and easy to understand so that no one mistakenly thinks something is the responsibility of their co-worker.
- Cloud computing solutions. One of the oft cited benefits of cloud solutions is that it helps to improve workplace communication by providing easy routes to discussion between co-workers. Cloud hosting can be used to ensure that employees have easy access to company information, as well as easy access to co-workers through email, chat, and digital calendar features.
- Research shows that one primary motivator of employees is a feeling of belonging and bonding with others. Employees will have trouble communicating together if they don’t know each other. Facilitate monthly, low-key hangouts at bars or restaurants so that camaraderie can blossom.
Are you going to try assigning clear tasks, organizing meetups, or adapting cloud computing hosting services for your company? Let us know in the comments. Continue: local.cbeyond.com
