Strong communication is vital for employees to develop relationships within the workplace and to complete projects efficiently. It even helps the company perform better as a whole. A Watson Wyatt study found that 50% of companies are more likely to report a lower turnover rate compared to the industry average when there is strong, effective communication in the workplace. It’s not uncommon for there to be some difficulty with communication from time to time, though. Millennials, for example, like to communicate via texts, emails, and chats primarily. The reliance on technology is much higher than that of other generations; 45% of young employees are even willing to take a lower-paying job if there is flexibility regarding the use of social media and choice of device for work.
There’s a pretty large gap in young people’s perception of their communication skills concerning what their employers think, however. A Hart Research Associates survey found that 62% of students believe their oral communication skills are well enough to assist them in succeeding at work. Their employers on the other hand only agree 28% of the time. To avoid miscommunication and frustrations, take some time to develop strong communication.
Step Out From Behind The Screen
Emails and chats are great for quick communication. However, if all communication is spent behind the computer screen, including more in-depth conversation, things can quickly become complicated and even misconstrued. Instead, speak face-to-face. It will most likely simplify the tasks and will prevent miscommunication.
Be Aware of Body Language
Your body language is often the first thing others take into account and contributes a great deal to their perception of you. How you stand, where you place your hands, and your facial expressions all have an impact on how people perceive you. When you’re in a meeting, refrain from crossing your arms, as this signals that you are disinterested in what you’re hearing. Make eye contact and lean into whoever is speaking to show that you are listening.
Think Positively
It’s easy to form a negative thought and let it snowball into something much more significant. Instead of focusing on the negative, reframe your thoughts to focus on the positive. For example, rather than thinking “What if no one laughs at my opening joke?” think “What if they laugh at my opening joke?” Reshaping the question in a positive light prompts positive responses and diverts your attention from the things that could go haywire to the things that could go well.