4 Ways to Improve Team Communication
What Do We Mean By Communication?
Communication is a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs or behavior, or simply put, communication is an exchange of information.
But often within work teams and chains of command, communication is lacking or non-existent. As organizational leaders, we need to reframe our conversations to better focus on achieving set goals in a productive way.
“Two-thirds of managers report that they feel uncomfortable communicating with their team.”
Common Communication Mistakes
1. Lack of Clarity - You tell your staff, “Hey, there’s a problem with the presentation slides!” Well, is it not loading? Is there a typo? Is it not in the folder at all? Without clarity, your staff’s solution might be wrong for the situation. Be clear and concise with your team so cut out miscommunication, wrong solutions, and wasted time.
2. Ignoring Feedback - Your employee or staff tells you, “This solution isn’t going to fix the problem, it’s only going to put a bandaid on it.” But instead of listening to their thoughts and feedback, you go ahead with your solution anyway. And just like they said, it doesn’t fix the problem and now you’re spending more money and resources to do it the right way. Don’t ignore comments from your team. They might be valuable and save your company money.
3. Communication Overload - Don’t over-communicate and confuse the situation. Try to keep your communications simple and easy to understand for the organization. This includes both in writing and orally. Too much communication can cause the reader or listener to get stuck at Point A, while you are already on Point D.
4. Assuming Understanding - Don’t assume everyone knows what you’re talking about. Being clear and concise helps, but allowing your staff to ask if there is any confusion or if they need any clarity is also important.
5. Avoiding Difficult Conversations - Some conversations are just hard. But avoiding them will only make them harder and possibly cause a worse situation than if you had addressed the situation right away. Don’t put off conversations that need to be handled.
What Are The Best Ways To Communicate?
Listen! It sounds easy but it often the hardest for team leads to do.
Find out how your team wants to communicate. Maybe via Microsoft Teams, in-person, one on one or some other communication platform.
Actively listen to your team’s feedback.
Give your team your undivided attention. Put your cell phone down and give direct eye contact to your team.
Have compassion - No one wants to communicate within a team leader where ideas are laughed at or shot down. Rather show compassion and interest in your team’s idea. No matter how far out they might be.
Give constructive feedback – Build on the ideas your team has given and give them meaningful feedback. Praise employee ideas that lead to the goal of the meeting or call. Ensure you’re providing constructive feedback which can lead to positive employee feelings.
Watch your body language and your team’s body language – Rolling of eyes or active sighing indicate to your team, “what a crazy idea,” or “I’m bored.” Team members sharing ideas are often more attuned to your body language than you may realize. So ensure you are being attentive to all comments.
What Are The Benefits Of Good Team Communication?
1. Better employee participation toward your team goal
2. Increased productivity
3. Reduction in conflict
4. A better workplace environment and culture
5. Improved employee engagement with organizational goals
