Effective communication is integral for the development of an organization. It is something that helps leaders perform on their basic functions of management- Planning, Organizing, Motivating and Controlling. Communication skills whether written or oral form the basis of any business activity whether product development, customer relations or employee engagement and retention.
According to research, an improved communication strategy can immensely improve employee engagement. An engaged workforce propels an organization towards success. Focused, driven and meaningful conversation can act as a catalyst for improving employee engagement. However, if the leader or manager fails to communicate effectively, it can prove detrimental for the organisation.
In order to communicate effectively, leaders can follow certain practices that essentially formulate engaging and clear communication strategies:
1.If every individual is different, your communication cannot be generic
Individuals form a team, and we manage the individuals within the team. Hence, the communication also needs to cater to and focus on each individual and their respective attributes. Everyone absorbs information in a different way. Identifying these ways will essentially help you communicate with them better and help them understand you, and what you have to say, better.
2. Consistent communication is continuous communication
The lack of definite deliverables and job responsibilities can hinder employee engagement within the organisation. These can also be the root causes of employee underperformance. To keep this in check, it is important to first communicate the deliverables and responsibilities clearly and also have continuous follow ups to understand the progress of the team along with their grievances. if any. This in turn helps in establishing a comfortable and engaging relationship between the manager and team members.
3. Be objective, not reflexive with your emotions
Having control over your emotions and them not influencing your interactions with your team members is a vital part of effective communication. Temper is not good for communication. However, we are all human and as a general trait, we do tend to get angry, but the important measure would be to assess these situations and proactively act towards them. Understanding how your employees perceive you when you yell and how accommodating they are to the same is a vital metric that needs to be observed along with how such heated conversations are affecting your working environment. Moreover, it is advised not to have heated conversations as emotions override any content we’re trying to share.
4. Praise more, criticize less
Everyone likes appreciation and recognition for the effort they put in. The best leaders identify these efforts and praise them to ensure the continuity of productivity. Moreover the best managers create an environment in which their team members want to excel. Mutual respect is best fostered through praise, support and steady encouragement. Creating a positive work environment naturally leads towards creation of a more engaged workforce. When a leader recognizes the efforts of the team, they feel empowered, supported, and are motivated to push themselves to the edge of their abilities to do the best job possible.
At the Taplow Group S.A, We are a team that is focused towards identifying and delivering the best talents as required by our clients. Backed with extensive research and a global team, our practices ensure that our deliverables reflect productivity for our clients. If you have any questions and queries, please visit us at www.TaplowGroup.com