we are communicating at an explosive rate. We spend hours weeding through our in-boxes, preparing reports and attending meetings. We talk, we text, we tweet. But, for all of the channels we have to reach each other — many of our most impassioned messages remain "lost in translation". Why? One explanation is that we simply haven't built the required skills to make effective communication a sure bet. We invest in strategies to design engaging office spaces, flatten bureaucracies and develop the technological capacity to receive those messages. But have we devoted ample time to the development of our communication skills?
The answer is likely "no" — and sadly, this limits our potential to share best thoughts, and convert those thoughts into action. The truth is, we think little of how we are doing communication-wise.
It is difficult to over-estimate the power of well developed communication skills.
it is unlikely we'll hear of an individual that has "communicated too much or too well". With communication prowess comes confidence and self-efficacy, a win-win for contributors and organizations alike. However, while communication skills sit high on the list of valued workplace skills, they remain a challenge for many of us. Whether we are considering the pitfalls of presentations, addressing the power of body language, or lamenting the e-mail epidemic — having the skills to communicate effectively matters.
We can begin to address this shortfall in a numbers of ways. A few to consider:
Set the tone
Communication skills should be re-discovered as a core competency in today's organizations. (Building awareness concerning the so-called "softer skills" sends a strong cultural message.) Identify "communicating" as a priority within your organization or team. Re-focusing on this skill set (effective collaboration, presentations skills, etc.) can build confidence and empowerment.
Make room for development
Building (and maintaining) strong oral and written communication skills is critical to success. Unfortunately, we work under the assumption that these skills develop spontaneously — and we all have weaknesses. When was the last time you completed a skills refresher in this area? What are your "communication" shortfalls? Make plans to work on them.
Support ideas
We all value innovation. There isn't a single idea, waiting in the wings, that wouldn't benefit from a healthy dose of effective communication. We must have the ability to convey our thoughts completely to others. Communication techniques that help us present our ideas (and the inspiration behind them) could figure prominently in launching the next great product, service or start-up.
Support performance
Communication skills directly impact the quality of our daily work lives. We should all have the skills to relay what we need from our work, even if these conversations are difficult. On the other hand, managers need to be skilled at delivering meaningful feedback that directs behavior.
Build in face time
If possible, build in opportunities to meet in-person. If you've ever received a cryptic e-mail (What?) or experienced an awkward conference call (Has she finished speaking?) — you realize how the absence of facial expressions and body language, limit the quality of a conversation. By and large, context is key to understanding.
Antennas up
There is the receiving end of the communication spectrum to consider, as well. (We receive just as many messages as we send), Borrow a page from the "effective listening" handbook, to determine if you are open to absorbing sent messages. Often our own "filters" can impact that reception.
Complete that "sound check"
Take time to determine if your message has been fully understood. Ask more questions: Is there anything that you do not fully understand? Do you need to hear more? All in all, communicating your ideas should always be considered a valued workplace opportunity. Having the skills to feel confident that your message was clearly heard — that's priceless.
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