Communication, communication, communication. Effective communication. At work, there is a constant flow of information, and it’s important to ensure an open line is available for the efficient management of time and resources.
Even so, studies have shown that 74% of employees feel like they are missing out on company news and information. As such, it’s vital to always be on the lookout for ways to improve business communications and employee engagement, especially in this age where we can access information with the click of a button.
Developing Skills for Each Type of Communication
In the workplace, there are 3 main types of communication: verbal, non-verbal, and written.
1. Verbal Communication
Verbal communication occurs any time we engage in conversations with others, whether in person, over the phone, or via video conferences. Whether you're talking to a manager, colleagues, or clients, verbal communication skills are important for your career. An effective communicator often has interpersonal skills and attributes such as empathy, open-mindedness, and emotional intelligence.
These skills and attributes, must be honed and refined to improve your verbal communication abilities. For a start, watch videos such as “Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques.” You can also develop your confidence and achieve your communication goals quickly by receiving professional coaching or going for workshops. The British Council, for example, conducts Effective Public Speaking workshops online that teach attendees how to plan, develop, and deliver engaging speeches.
2. Non-verbal Communication
Also known as non-verbal cues, non-verbal communication is the way we communicate without actually saying anything. It can include everything from facial expressions to body language and eye contact.
As a matter of fact, negative body language can create a negative impression and impede communication and lead to failed negotiations. To improve your non-verbal communication skills, there are a few tricks that can help you appear more confident and assertive. Be sure to maintain good eye contact. Use your hands when talking - in moderation of course - and try not to fidget while paying attention to your posture.
To build rapport with your colleagues, you can even try mirroring their body language and movements from time to time. By adopting such practices, you will improve others’ perception of you.
3. Written Communication for Business
From emails to instant messaging platforms, memorandums, and more, written communication is perhaps the most used method of communication at work.
To enhance your professional written communication skills, be clear and concise. Practise to perfect the balance between professionalism and friendliness. Much like verbal communication, remember that empathy is key - throwing in a “Hope you’re doing well,” at the start of an email is one great way to make your reader smile. Don't overlook grammar and misspelled words either. Use tools like Grammarly to improve the overall quality of your writing.
Internal Communications During a Pandemic
Since the pandemic hit, hybrid work arrangements have become a norm. With 8 in 10 individuals in the Singapore workforce preferring to work from home, companies must develop new internal communication strategies to ensure business continuity.
This means web communication through software such as Slack, Zoom, Trello and the like have to become a permanent feature in the post-pandemic world. In addition to web communication, it’s important to think about other tools needed to facilitate acclimatisation to the new normal.
Tools to Maintain Effective Communication in the Workplace & Home
If your organisation has adopted hybrid work arrangements, there are many platforms for your communication needs. Some of these include:
- Dropbox Biz: Access and share files within your organisation with Dropbox Biz, which ensures everything your team needs is in one place. Storing files securely allows for collaboration anytime, anywhere, this easy-to-use tool ensures that everyone is on the same page and can finish tasks efficiently.
- Microsoft 365 Enterprise: Microsoft 365 Enterprise comes with intelligent business tools that help run and grow your business. You can even store and share files with 1TB of OneDrive Cloud storage.
- Other Work from Home Essentials: To help businesses shifting to a more permanent work from home arrangement, M1 offers a selection of first-class WFH essential services. From business internet plans to M1 Cloud Unified Communication (UC), enjoy greater convenience from wherever you are.
