Tips on Improving Business Communication

Communication can be defined as the process of understanding and sharing meaning. Communication is key to your success in relationships, in the workplace, and across your lifetime. So how can you be better at it? Here are some tips:

Conversation, Body Language and Emotions

Make Communication a Top Priority!

In fast-paced work environments, communication can slip to the bottom of the list. Don’t let it! Take advantage of every opportunity in the workplace to voice your opinions and connect with your teams. Opportunities are there – it is your responsibility to use them to constantly stay connected!

REVIVE the Great Lost Art of CONVERSATION

Technology is wonderful for improving speed, but it can have a detrimental effect on personal relationships. How many times have you sent an email with the best intentions, only to have its message misconstrued on the other end? A short response sent in haste can easily be misinterpreted as a lack of care or worse, as a sign that you’re angry. Pick up the phone or walk across the office to speak face to face!

Non-verbal Matters- A LOT!

65-95% of a message is received non-verbally. Make an effort to be mindful of your body language and build a positive rapport with verbal and nonverbal communication.

Body language also translates across the phone with clients. Try smiling or acting like you are in front of the client while on the phone with them, it definitely makes your conversation come across better. Try it you’ll be amazed at how it can help improve your communications style.

Take Your Emotions out of the Equation

You try to promote professionalism at the office, but that’s not always easy to do when so many different personalities converge in such a small space. Everyone views the world within their own emotional framework. No matter how innocent your intentions, they can be misconstrued. Ask for clarification at the end of conversations to make sure you and your co-worker or client are on the same page.

Listening, Productivity & Clear Messaging

Don’t just Hear- LISTEN!

Being an effective communicator means listening as well as talking. Here is a clue: If you’re thinking ahead to the next meeting or planning tonight’s dinner during the conversation, you are not paying attention. 

Try to keep a mental checklist of all the important points the person you are speaking to makes. When the conversation is over, force yourself to recall at least 3 of the points that were shared.

Know Your Audience

It’s not people’s fault that language, both verbal and nonverbal, is an imperfect system. We can, however, take responsibility for the utility and limitations of language to try to gain a better understanding of how we can communicate more effectively. As a communicator, consider both the role of the speaker and the audience. Consider not only what and how you want to communicate, but also what and how your audience will receive your communication in order to present an effective message.

Bottom line – get to know one another and learn communication preferences and styles of others.

Make it Productive

Before jumping to conclusions, be sure to ask questions and really listen to the answers. Your perception of the situation could change with more information. In any case, treat the other person with respect and move quickly to solutions and next steps. The goal of any conversation, tough or simple, should be a positive resolution.

Be Concise & Clear In Your Message

Whether oral or written, be sure to deliver a clear communication with all the key points so the person you are delivering the message to is on the same page. Have all your facts and points together so you are communicating effectively and efficiently. Eliminate the “nonsense” and potential for any confusion which can result in miscommunication.

Great communication is vital to the health and success of every organization. If you would like to strategize on ways to improve your business communication plans give FLORES a call today. We are ready to consult with you on the best solutions at (619) 588-2411.