Understanding how to communicate and work together are appreciated traits in the corporate world, but it can be tricky in reality. Enhancing communication in the workplace is necessary for professionals to excel in their tasks and even become qualified to take leadership roles.

Depending on everyone’s personality, it is usual for individuals to have coworkers in their departments with whom they get along better and with whom they share a positive working relationship. But the reality is that in the business world we cannot decide with whom we interact and one has to learn how to share ideas and exchange information without losing the team’s activity progress and outcomes.

Why is communication important at work?

When we talk about communication, it is something broader than just chatting or talking about a certain issue during a meeting. It is also necessary to have focus and attention, and develop emotional skills that allow this conversation to be productive.

We won’t always work with people we identify with, but that shouldn’t stop everyone from doing their part and achieving goals together. Understand why it’s important to have good communication in the workplace:

Improves the organizational climate

One of the main characteristics of a toxic environment is badmouthing each other, pointing fingers, and criticizing each other’s work. This happens precisely because people are unable to build trust or maintain effective communication.

Of course, part of this depends on the company culture, but each professional can do their part by seeking to be more collaborative and empathetic.

Reinforces teamwork

In a team, everyone must be aligned, because oftentimes, one person’s work depends on another. Therefore, in addition to tools with defined deadlines and processes, there must be frank conversations about each person’s needs and obligations.

In addition to avoiding rework, it allows everyone to work towards the same goals, allowing the group to exceed expectations. Succeeding in projects collectively also impacts each person’s personal performance, and everyone can develop when working together.

Creates bonds

When people make space for effective communication, they can discover more about each other’s work and lives, allowing them to create connections that last even if they no longer work together.

How to improve communication at work?

Good communication has a direct impact on people’s daily lives, their ability to socialize and deal with coworkers, and their job satisfaction. When someone doesn’t have good professional relationships, they lose motivation and their performance suffers.

Therefore, regardless of the actions promoted by the company to encourage good communication, professionals can develop this skill themselves.

Here’s how:

1 – Be collaborative

It is understandable that, between their own professional obligations and personal issues, people get caught up in their activities and do not make an effort or try to help others with their difficulties.

But by collaborating, you can learn about your colleagues’ qualifications and it’s also an opportunity to demonstrate your own skills.

2 – Be patient

In extreme or unforeseen situations, emotional intelligence is a great ally for employees to be able to think rationally and not let their nerves take over, using their energy to propose solutions.

The same thing happens when something unexpected happens to a colleague. Instead of acting emotionally, saying or behaving rudely, be patient and try to understand and find other ways to resolve the issue.

3 – Know how to listen

Conversation is not merely speaking; it’s hearing as well. One of the issues with effective dialogues, in the workplace or otherwise, is that most folks are more concerned with conveying their viewpoint than taking the time to hear what other people have to say.

But being able to listen provides a glimpse into what the other individual’s perspective of the work or problem is, and enables you to build empathy for individuals.

4 – Be direct

The way we communicate with friends when telling a story is not the same as how we talk to coworkers, or at least it shouldn’t be. Be careful not to be verbose and end up deviating from the intended subject, and also to use words and tone of voice.

This is especially important when giving feedback to colleagues . If something needs to be communicated, it’s important to point out a specific issue and let them know how it impacted your work and delivery.

5 – Keep improving yourself

Good communication helps to have a more efficient relationship with teammates, but it also helps in conducting meetings, work presentations, and can be a differentiator for professionals aiming for leadership positions.