The importance of communication skills can be seen when good, quality communication occurs that prevents misunderstandings, miscommunication and conflict. It produces productive work and performance which ultimately impacts the company's bottom line.
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The Importance of Communication Skills for Effective Organizational Performance
in the workplace cannot be stressed enough.
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Managers need to understand the importance of communication skills in order to increase the effectiveness of internal communication between management and staff.
The importance of communication skills are often listed in the "top four" job skills which predict both employee and employer satisfaction? Poor communication is often a reason that employees quit jobs or look elsewhere to find other opportunities.
While one might think that salaries would be most important, this isn't always the case. Misunderstanding what is being said at work can lead to increased stress and job frustration.
The bottom line? Communicating clearly is a vital part of optimizing worker - and employer - satisfaction. Never underestimate the importance of communication skills in all workplace situations.
Speak directly and employers will understand what employees are saying (and vice versa). In contrast, hesitant, garbled or indirect language can not only create confusion and frustration but keep the intended message from getting through. It is a mistake to think that completing required tasks is enough to stay competitive in a tough job market. The power of well-chosen words, campaigns, award ceremonies and other forms of communication can help employees remain satisfied at work.
A vital part of communication is making employees feel understood and valued. Specific campaigns can help boost employee morale and give workers a chance to feel recognized and valued. When there is a strong morale in offices and other work environments, job retention is often high as well. The type of campaign that can be devised is limited only by imagination but should fit the job and goals of the workplace. Find sources of effective banners, slogans and other ways to support campaigns.
The importance of communication skills - So what are the specific communication skills which are most important? To understand this, it may be helpful to understand basic communication patterns which are already occurring at work. Pay attention to what is said when talking to others and pay equal attention to the person's response. Don't ignore nonverbal cues such as yawning, crossed arms and other signs of boredom or frustration. These are signs that communication needs to be enhanced.
Of course, getting people to have team spirit or to feel valued as part of a group is also important. Clear, direct language can help employees and employers feel like they are working towards a common goal - or create dissatisfaction. From start to finish, every person involved in a project should have a clear sense of the reason for doing a required tasks and it also helps if they feel valued. The right words can boost group morale. Emphasize the team purpose and have frequent feedback sessions to nip frustration in the bud.
If an employer or employee indicates signs of anger, unhappiness or confusion, be sure to stress the main goals of the job. Perfect communication at all times is not always possible but clearing up problems can be handled quickly by asking the right questions. This is where the importance of communication skills comes in. Find out if everyone shares a solid understanding, not only of goals, but expected time frames to complete tasks, possible costs and other aspects of the job. Listen to suggestions and ideas for improving job performance.
Highlighted under the importance of communication skills is the skill of simply listening. Don't make the mistake of assuming that only spoken words fall into the realm of communication. After making a statement or point, stop and listen. Wait at least ten or fifteen seconds before speaking again - and perhaps longer. This gives people a chance to collect their thoughts and respond. Good listeners are often equally good at getting people to feel understood and this helps build trust and a happier workplace.
Finally, recognize that communication is not just about speaking or listening. It can include different forms of verbal and nonverbal communication such as different types of electronic communication, special badges or pins, specific surveys and awards and perhaps an employee of the month special award ceremony. All of this boosts morale, builds trust and creates a more focused and effective work environment.