Critical Communication Skills for the Workplace

Today’s workplace requires the ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of audiences.   There are many types of communication:

·        Face-to Face

·        Telephone

·        Information Written (e.g. E-mails, Memos)

·        Formal Written (e.g. Reports, Letters, Strategies)

I have compiled a few skills and resources to help your communication.

Face-to-Face

75% of managerial responsibilities in the workplace involve face-to-face interaction.  Three successful methods of oral communication are:

1. Appraisal (Feedback)
2.  Coaching (Listening)
3. Team Development (Self-Disclosure)

1.) Appraisal

Appraisal, more commonly known as feedback, should be supportive and of value.  It should always be given with mutual trust and away from hostile environments.  A balanced level of feedback (not being sparse while not being overbearing) can help build relationships.  Effective feedback focuses on the positive and takes away the negative.  Constructive feedback focuses on opportunities to improve and not on mistakes or personal shortcomings.

2.) Coaching

Listening effectively (coaching) is important because 40% of our time is spent is listening to others.  It is typically the most difficult communication task.  Looking interested when listening is crucial.  While in the conversation, suspend judgment until information is received and understood.  It is a good tip to rephrase information back to the person to check for clarity and information.  This is especially critical if it is an important business deal.  

3.) Team Development

A key aspect of team development is self-disclosing.  Self-disclosing is being open with ideas and information about others and what you hear. It is crucial to communicate without being defensive.  Using respect, courtesy and common sense will help you avoid etiquette mistakes. 

Using essential skills such as appraisal, coaching and team development will help you in your efforts to become a skilled communicator. 

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Works Citied

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10/10/2010  http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newCS_99.htm