Fundamentals Of Effective Communication Essay Example

In the Workplace

Fundamentals of Effective Communication in the Workplace
Communication can be a barrier in the workplace. However, it is a barrier that, with effort, can be overcome, improving productivity and employee morale in the organization. In my own experience, there have been several occasions when communication has been especially effective. For example, when I used to work as a secretary for a local newspaper, the drivers had some problems locating delivery destinations on the route. Many of the destinations were no longer applicable, while newer businesses were not listed on the current route.
The drivers contacted me, and explained the conflict that the old route presented. I asked them to provide further details about which locations were no longer available to accept the newspapers. While I made phone calls to newer businesses to determine if they were interested in receiving a free subscription and add them to the new route, I contacted my supervisor about the drivers' concerns with the old route. I then presented information with updated locations, and was subsequently told by my new supervisor to design a new route, making it more logistically-sound, as well as more accurate.
There were three reasons that made the abovementioned communication effective. First, the supervisor was made aware of the problem. Thus, the problem went through the proper chain-of-command. Secondly, this communication improved the profitability of the newspaper. Not only did the newspaper make more money, but the deliverers worked more efficiently. Ultimately, within a year, the customers were extremely happy with their new services. Thus, the channels of communication that were used led to specific measurable results.
As I have learned, there are several elements that foster effective communication in business. The first element is the maintenance of an open line of communication throughout the workplace. This includes all of the employees.
Effective communication also requires listening skills. Thus, when a problem or conflict is presented, it is important for the whole business to listen, and ask relevant questions if they are unsure about what has been communicated. It is important to have a fluid and flexible chain-of-command so that communication flows smoothly and properly. It is also important that everyone knows and understands their roles within the organization so that they know to whom to refer a given problem, or they know how to solve it themselves.
Through my experience, I have also discovered that work can become so routine after a short period of time that things become "out-of-sync" quickly with respect to effective communications in the workplace. Thus, it is important for key employees to have regular meetings that ensure everyone is on the same page regarding how to solve problems and conflicts within the company.
I have also discovered that, in any business, the customer is the most important asset. They must be respected and their concerns must be immediately addressed, if the business is to succeed. It is imperative that lines of communication are kept open with the customer to ensure their continuing patronage.
Technology in the workplace has improved communications, but also has its drawbacks. Employees must be educated and trained how to properly use communications technology, such as e-mails, phone calls, voice mails. However, they must also know how to function as independent problem-solvers, while documenting or notating what problems they have addressed. Thus, it is important for every employee to know their limitations and have a skill set that gives them the ability to effectively communicate.