Effective communication

Effective Communication

Communication in the workplace is vital to an organization’s ability to operate smoothly and

productively.

Vertical and lateral communication leads to improved overall company performance.

Upward communication, which is the flow of information to higher levels within an organization and typically involves feedback, empowers employees, and increases job satisfaction.

Downward communication, meaning information passed down from superiors or managers, also increases worker happiness.

Overall, the flow of communication in the workplace is very important to workers and

therefore to the overall success of an organization.

Employees want to be sure that they are receiving thorough and truthful information

from superiors, and that they are able to share their own ideas, thoughts and concerns.

Communication Styles in the Workplace

People are hard-wired with different communication styles, which is important to

note because successful communication requires that someone who is receiving

information from another person gets the message and correctly interprets it.

Four Main Communication Styles

1. Interpersonal (Relator)

2. Affective (Socializer)

3. Cognitive (Thinker)

4. Behavioral (Director)

http://www.insteplimited.com/pdf/SKILLS/Communication_Styles.pdf

Interpersonal/Relator

Relators easily and readily express their thoughts and feelings, but generally think at a

more conscious level and slower pace.

They are more relationship-oriented and prefer unobtrusive interactions.

Affective/Socializer

Socializers prefer to work with others rather than alone.

They generally interact with a fast-paced communication style that can be interpreted as

aggressive.

Cognitive/Thinker

Thinkers are analytical in their approach and have a more closed, personal style.

They often take time to feel comfortable revealing ideas and information about

themselves to others.

Behavioral/Director

Directors are typically competitive and aggressive in nature.

They are independent and results-oriented, less focused on the impact felt by others.

Communication Among Different Styles

In order to establish effective communication amongst people that inherently operate with

different communication styles, it is important to avoid misinterpretation of messages and

motives and instead develop a means of learning and understanding.

Connecting with Relators

• Seek out and listen to their opinions and ideas.

• Allow them time to make decisions without pressure.

• Encourage them to express concerns or opinions without aggressive opposition.

• Try to reach a mutual agreement on work goals and deadlines.

Connecting with Socializers

• Allow time for socializing in meetings.

• Confirm and follow up on any agreements that they have made.

• Discuss experiences, people, opinions and facts, and attempt to support your ideas with opinions of people they respect.

• Ask about, and respect, their “gut” feelings.

• Seek a balance between fun and achieving results.

Connecting with Thinkers

• Speak and behave in a more formal manner.

• Present options along with the pros and cons of an idea.

• Be punctual and follow up in writing.

• Ensure that information is presented in an organized and comprehensive manner.

• Recognize that options considered risky are generally not welcomed.

Connecting with Directors

• Get straight to the point and avoid over-explaining or repeating yourself.

• Be sure to be well-prepared and organized.

• Be punctual and speak in a fast pace.

• Focus on the results that are to be achieved.

Effective communicators are those that are able to learn the different communication

styles of others, recognize and adapt to them.

This is important whether someone is sharing or receiving information.

Cooperation and Efficiency in the Workplace

The ability to communicate effectively is essential to successful cooperation of

coworkers.

When there is clear communication throughout an organization, it creates an environment in

which labor and tasks can be organized efficiently, initiatives are known and pursued,

and profitability is maximized.