Back to the basics

Let’s face it. We are living in a Right Now world.  A Right Now world where finding information is a keystroke away on a Wikipedia site. A Right Now world where finding information is a one search click away on a Google site.  Do you really have time to stop, analyze, and reflect? I bet its hard to with an unrealistic deadline hovering over you as soon as you walk in the office.  When was the last time you talked to your officemate or walked over to a coworker's cubical space and said “You got a minute? I need your advise on something.”  I bet many of you reading this post can’t think of a time that you had time to freely exchange ideas. 

We are missing out if we don’t share and brainstorm with our co-workers.  Communication is key to completing a project.  We have to be able to exchange ideas with our colleagues in a matter that is respectful, effective, and truthful.  Dana Larson, a OnePlace Marketing Manager blogger, posted 7 tips for improving workplace communication.  I found them to be helpful and wanted to share.

1. Think before you speak

 Sometimes the best form of communication is thinking about what you are going to say - or not say.

2. Listen carefully

Communication is a two-way street. It’s always best to actively listen to the people with whom you are communicating.

3. Increase communication channels

Today, there are many ways of staying in touch with those around you. In a workplace, we have meetings, emails, phone calls and memos.

4. Don’t get defensive

In an instance where a conflict is present in a conversation, try not to become defensive. It’s easy to do, but very unproductive.

5. Ask for help

It’s not always the words you speak - sometimes nonverbal communication can come through and impact a situation.

6. Speak slowly

You don’t want to lose audience members by talking too fast, and if someone misunderstands you, they may not complete an assignment on time or they may take the wrong action for themselves.

7. Take action

When engaging in a conversation, make sure it’s as productive as it can be.

 Each one of us can improve our communication skills. Pick one of Dana’s 7 tips and work on improving that skill for two weeks.  Walk over to your co-worker's desk and ask if they have a minute to brainstorm with you.  I bet it will make a difference.  How do you communicate at work?  Are you being an effective communicator?