This is part 2 of a 3-part series on great skill sets we love on the job. If you’re looking for a position currently, this series will feature characteristics to show off at the interview!
Communication
More often than not, a lot of issues at work can be resolved by attending to one key element – communication.
Pick up the phone, drop an e-mail, follow-up on an e-mail, send an IM, stop into the office for a chat, hold a meeting, send a text. But whatever you do – communicate. This is the best way to avoid misunderstandings, smooth over hurt feelings, and head off a concern before it becomes a problem.
Easier said than done.
The thing is, people fail to communicate because they think it’s not necessary or don’t feel like they have the time. Sometimes they aren’t sure what to say or how to say it. Here are a few tips that might help:
- Be clear and direct. Not only is this a time-saver, but it will also help you avoid misunderstandings. No need to be overly formal with your sentence structure. Concentrate on the message you want to send. For example, instead of saying, “It is in your best interest to review this contract and return promptly with any questions or concerns,” say “Please return this contract by Friday. Include any questions you have about terms.” Always be specific.
- Know your audience. Does the person you need to talk to prefer e-mail or a phone call? If you know the preferred method of communication, you will get a prompt response.
- Follow-up is key. Have you ever sent a message and wondered if it was received? Or how it was received? Have you ever met to discuss a plan of attack, and then left the meeting only to wonder about a few of the details? E-mail summaries after meetings are great. Phone calls after an e-mail are great. Make time for both!
- Every communication is important. No matter how small. Stop to chat to a co-worker for a moment. Send a quick “How are you doing?” message. Team check-ins during projects are great ways to keep conversation moving along.
These days, no news is not good news. Because we are constantly “messaged” in our world, we expect to hear from people often, particularly at work. When we don’t, our motivation is affected and we make assumptions we shouldn’t.
Communicate clearly, communicate often. That’s about all there is to it!
