COMMUNICATION  IN  THE  WORKPLACE

The greatest problem in communication is the illusion that it has been accomplished.
~ George Bernard Shaw

How many times have you heard, "It's just a communication problem"?   And, how frequently have you thought, "They should have told me that a long time ago", or, "I already told you that.  Why don't you listen"?

Are "communication problems" creating inefficiencies, frustration, anger, and even conflict at work?   If you're like most managers, you experience this often.   And, usually you don't find out about communication problems until much later, sometimes too late.   By then poor decisions or mistakes may have been made, and people are reacting with anger and/or hurt.   Poor communication can result in people disengaging, the eruption of conflict in the workplace, and perhaps worse, talented, skilled people leaving your company.

Simply stated, communication is a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common language or system of symbols, signs, or behavior.   Although it sounds straightforward, "it ain't necessarily so".

For starters, communication requires more than one person.   For communication to happen successfully, both parties have to participate, perhaps reciprocally.   One is actively communicating; the other is actively listening.

Barriers to Communication

There are many potential barriers to fruitful communication that prevent the message from being accurately understood.   Often these barriers are subtle and hidden from our view.   Some of the most common barriers to communication are:

• Environmental - Loud noises or other distractions, e.g. an attractive person, bright lights, etc.
• Bias - Are our life experiences, culture, or religion interfering with our ability to communicate?
• Physical or Emotional Stress - Are you distracted due to fatigue or feeling emotionally overwhelmed?
• Perception - Are you turned off by the other person?  Perhaps you can't understand, don't like, feel bored, or don't respect the other person?
• Self-Focus - Are you unable to hear the other person because you are caught in your own thoughts?

Communication problems impact an organization in many different ways.   Poor communication can lead to a workplace conflict or it can cause problems in your attempts to address those conflicts.

In a family business the lack of effective communication may result in friction between family members about how the company should be run or about succession planning.

Communication plays an important role in leadership as well.   If managers don't communicate well with each other or with their employees the company's performace is adversely affected.

If your company is experiencing interpersonal communication problems there may be deeper issues that need to be addressed.   Don't hesitate to contact us for a free, no-obligation initial consultation.   We'll be glad to talk with you and answer your questions.