Communication

By Frankie

Communication is essential in any job, and while there’s no one “right” way to do it, some communication skills are more valuable than others, especially in the workplace. Let me break down the key communication skills you need, how to apply them at work, and practical ways to sharpen these skills to make you a stronger communicator and a better candidate for any job.

Clear and Transparent Communication

First off, clarity is crucial. When you’re sharing ideas, giving instructions, or providing feedback, your message needs to be clear and straightforward. If it’s not, you risk misunderstandings that can lead to mistakes and frustration. So, keep your communication concise and direct.

But it’s not just about being clear; transparency is just as important. When your team understands the reasons behind decisions, they’re more likely to get on board. Be open about the processes, goals, and challenges your team is facing. For example, if a tough decision needs to be made, explain the factors that led to it. This openness builds trust and helps create a more collaborative environment.

Active Listening

Communication isn’t just about talking—it’s also about listening. Active listening shows that you value others’ input, which can create a more inclusive and cooperative environment. This means giving your full attention when someone is speaking, avoiding interruptions, and responding in a way that shows you’ve understood their point of view.

It’s not just about hearing words; it’s about understanding the tone, emotion, and intent behind them. Practicing active listening helps you build stronger relationships and leads to better decision-making because you’re more likely to catch important details or ideas that might otherwise be overlooked.

Adapting Your Communications

Good communication is also about building real connections with your colleagues. This doesn’t mean you have to be an extrovert or everyone’s best friend, but it does mean showing respect, empathy, and understanding. Recognise that everyone has their own way of communicating, and by adapting your style to fit the preferences of those around you, you can make your interactions more effective.

Building connections also involves getting to know your coworkers beyond just work-related tasks. Understanding what motivates them and how they prefer to receive information can help you tailor your communication to be more impactful. This approach creates a positive work environment where people feel valued, leading to better teamwork and productivity.

How to Develop Your Communication Skills

Improving your communication skills takes practice, and there are plenty of ways to do it. One effective method is joining a debate club. Debating teaches you to think on your feet, articulate your ideas clearly, and respond to opposing views in a structured and persuasive way. It also helps you develop active listening skills, as you need to carefully consider your opponent’s arguments to counter them effectively.

Another way to improve is by participating in group projects or team-based activities, whether at school or in your community. These experiences push you to communicate with different types of people in various situations, which is excellent practice for the workplace. Public speaking opportunities, like giving presentations or speaking at events, can also significantly boost your confidence and ability to communicate clearly under pressure.

Finally, reading and writing regularly can sharpen your communication skills. Reading exposes you to different ways of expressing ideas, while writing helps you organize your thoughts and convey them clearly.

In the end, communication is one of the most powerful tools you can have in your professional toolkit. By focusing on clear communication, active listening, and building real connections, you’ll be well on your way to creating a positive and productive work environment. Keep practicing, and you’ll find that strong communication skills not only make you a better teammate but also a more attractive candidate in any job market.